It's that time of year again when the weather starts to turn chilly and we all start bundling up. For some, this means hibernating until the warm weather comes back. But for those of us who refuse to let winter get in the way of our fitness goals, staying active can be a bit more challenging. 

Here are a few tips on how to keep moving in the cold months.

1. Think of your goal

Once you are committed to your goal, it gives you something to look forward to. It will fuel your desire to push through whatever the season is. Think of your goal to remind you why you want to stay in shape and active even when it's cold outside.

2. Find a workout buddy

Working out becomes more enjoyable and challenging when you have a fun, persuasive, motivated workout buddy who shares similar goals with you. You can support and push each other to become better together. Someone who will look out for your progress and accountability, too.

3. Gear up

Proper workout gear keeps you safe, protected, and comfortable. Whenever we have new nice gear, it somehow gives us excitement to work out. 

Also, clothing influences behavior and attitude and it has a subconscious effect on our performance according to a study from the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology. 

Make sure to layer up and wear proper winter workout gear when you hit the freezing temperature outside to stay safe and warm.

4. Create a routine

Create a routine that will work best for you. Having a routine creates discipline and consistency with your workout goals. Your body system gets used to it until it becomes a habit. Once it becomes a routine, you will gradually overcome your lack of motivation to work out during winter.

5. Try something new outdoor

Winter comes and goes. Just have fun and enjoy the winter season. There are a lot of winter outdoor activities and sports to keep yourself active and moving even if it is freezing cold outside. It is also a great opportunity for you to learn new seasonal sports you might actually love, too.

6. Play your workout playlist

Listening to your favorite workout playlist relieves boredom and gives you grooves while working out. Music can help enhance your performance and endurance. Sports Psychologist Costas Karageorghis states that "Music can either delay fatigue or increase work capacity."

7. Enjoy home workouts

When you can't withstand the very cold temperature outside, enjoying a home workout is the best solution. You can watch some easy-to-follow free workout video at home that needs no equipment. That way, you did not let winter stops you from getting to your fitness goal.

8. Treat yourself

Enjoy simple rewards like a cup of hot coffee, a sauna, a massage, or new workout gear. It is more gratifying and motivating to treat yourself after braving and conquering the cold to work out. Always appreciate yourself for a job well done.

Conclusion

Despite the colder weather, there are plenty of ways to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. In fact, winter can be a great time to get into some new outdoor activities. 

Check out theGearTOP blog for more outdoor tips and tricks! We’ve got you covered from head to toe with all the gear you need to make your winter workouts enjoyable. 

Stay warm and have fun!