21/11/2016
The right way to workout in winters
*Dress appropriately
*Don't be extra dressed
*Set a goal
*Look for a partner or a group
*Workout outdoors
*Keep hydrating
*Longer warm ups
*HIT It!!
Dress appropriately
In winters, wear multiple layers that you can take off as you feel hot during the workout. Layering with thin tight clothes is better than one thick layer as it provides better insulation and better movement. Go for fabrics that will keep you dry and warm and at the same time won't restrict your movements. Hence, synthetic fibers could be great options and not cotton. Wearing compression is a great idea in winters as it not only helps you to keep warm but also to recover faster from the workout. It is also important to cover your extremities as your body tends to lose a lot of body heat from these areas. Be sure to wear warm hats, gloves and socks that will keep your feet dry.
If you like working outdoors, go for reflective bright clothes and shoes to be safe on the roads.
Don't be extra dressed
Don't try to keep yourself too warm while working out as you will perspire more and end up feeling chilled. If you are feeling hot during a workout, remove a layer of clothes as it may lead to hypothermia.
Set a goal
Working out in winter is not easy as the days are shorter and you will find hundreds of excuses to not to workout. Try to set a goal for the entire winter season. It could be either running a marathon or just losing a few inches. Doesn't matter as long as you have something to work for. Make a goal that is achievable and measurable. For example, if you can do 10 pushups now. Set a goal to do 20 pushups by the end of one month. This is both measurable and achievable.
Look for a partner or a group
There is nothing like having a partner or a group or a personal trainer to workout with. This will keep you motivated and increase your level of efforts while training. You will be more likely to stick to a schedule and have a better time while working out.
If you don't have a workout buddy and can't afford a personal trainer, you can definitely join a group class. There are so many options available out there today including yoga, pilates, CrossFit, running and biking groups.
Workout outdoors
It is better to workout outdoors in winters in my opinion. It helps you burn more calories as body has to work harder to maintain your body temperature. Also, getting some fresh air is good for your health and mind as well.
Keep hydrating
Make sure to drink enough water even when it's cold. It is very easy to get dehydrated in winters as it is harder to notice. We may be sweating but the body temperature is not too hot. Load up on water before starting a workout and carry a water bottle with you. A good rule will be to have at least 3-4 cups of water during your workouts.
Longer warm ups
As the temperature drops, your muscles and joints will take longer to heat up. Hence, you are at a much higher risk of getting sprains and strains if you don't warm up long enough. Try to warm up for at least 10-15 minutes and don't up the intensity until you already start breaking into sweat.
HIT It!!
Nothing works better in winters than high intensity training also known as HIT. This is short and intense and works perfect in winters as the days are shrinking. You can vary exercises and include bodyweight exercises, running, skipping, and even weightlifting. Using this regime, you can work on your strength, stamina, and speed at the same time. This is much more dynamic and fun as compared to using cardio machines every day. CrossFit is a program that utilizes this training methodology to train people in a group class format.