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Kat:
There is no doubt many people living in our area find it more difficult to workout in the winter than the summer. This is mostly because our geographic location means shorter days and colder temperatures during the fall and winter months. That’s why I believe it’s very important to be creative when deciding on a workout plan to keep you from hibernating. Here are a few tips you may find useful.

Take advantage of warm winter days.  Even the coldest of winters have an occasional break in the weather that provides a chance to get some road work in. So far this season we have had more than our fair share of days with temperatures well into the 60’s. So keep your running shoes in your gym bag and be sure not to miss the chance to hit the road if the opportunity presents itself.

Don’t limit your options. The cold weather offers the perfect opportunity to change your routine. Take a tour around the cardio deck at the gym. Try using the machines that you may have snubbed in the past such as the elliptical, arch trainer, rowing machine or stair master. You may even consider incorporating a program that combines several machines to keep yourself from getting board.

Add circuit training. On days when you just don’t have the time or energy to do both cardiovascular training and weight training try combining the two by doing a circuit training workout. Complete 1 weight lifting exercise per body part with little to no rest in between. Repeat the process 1-3 times depending on you fitness level. This technique will force your heart to work a little harder while training your muscles at the same time.

Invent your own home workout. There will be days when you just won’t be able to run outside or get to the gym. Prepare for situations like these by making a workout that can be done just about anywhere. Combine exercises such as push ups, crunches, lunges, bench dips, body weight squats. Add in some cardiovascular moves like jumping rope, jogging in place or running up and down a set of stairs. Remember doing something is always better than doing nothing.

Last but not least try and find a winter sport that interests you. Many of my clients play racquetball, indoor basketball or swim during the winter. These sports help to burn off extra calories when the winter temperatures limit are activity levels.