Having kids makes sticking to a workout routine a huge challenge. It just always seems like there isn’t enough time in a day to get everything done and often times, exercise takes a backseat.
Cold weather brings a whole new set of challenges, making it even tougher to stay motivated (which is why most of us head into springtime carrying a few extra pounds). It is so much more appealing to stay in bed for an extra half hour or curl up with a cup of hot chocolate when you have some down time (if that exists in your house, in mine it’s hard to come by).
Next time you are feeling super sluggish and guilty for missing yet another workout, try one of these suggestions to keep you motivated through those cold, gray months.
- Look for a seasonal exercise class (one that’s indoors!). Many gyms offer boot camps and other fitness programs at discounted rates during the winter months when membership drops off. Prepaying for a Fall or Winter session is a great way to ensure you’ll stick to your routine on most days. Make sure it’s something that is do-able for your schedule. Since many of these fitness centers also offer daycare, you’re all set!
- Heat things up with hot yoga. This is definitely my favorite way to warm up on a cold day. Most yoga studios offer 60 or 90 minute classes to fit your lifestyle. I like to get in and out with my workouts so I opt for hour long power yoga sessions. The heated studio helps to detoxify your body. Yoga is great for strengthening and stretching your muscles, but it can be an excellent cardio workout, as well.
- Stay home. Working out in my living room has become a necessity for me since becoming a mom. Sometimes you just don’t have a half an hour! Exercise TV on Demand offers so many different workouts that you can pick and choose based on how much time you have to spare on any given day. It’s also great for your body to change up your workouts to keep challenging your muscles. If you don’t have cable, grab a couple of exercise DVDs that are fun and challenging and that you can alternate between.
- Be Brave! Some Fall afternoons are beautiful and crisp and once you start moving you realize it’s actually the perfect weather for a jog. If it’s super chilly out, try bundling up and pounding the pavement (just make sure you warm those muscles up beforehand). You might find the fresh air and cooler temperatures are more inviting than you thought.
- Just keep swimming. This month, I’ll be joining my 22 month old for a toddler swim class. Though I’m not that pumped about getting into a bathing suit in the middle of November, it is a good reminder that my body still exists under all those hoodies I’ve been rocking. Look for a heated pool in your area to get your swim on!
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