Seasons Change and So Can your Workouts
Fall is here and colder temperatures are rolling in too. At this time, I see a jump in fitness class participation because many folks start heading inside to workout.
I also see a drop in attendance.
What, how can there be both?
Well, the people that start coming inside have exercise as part of their daily life routine, while others find the colder weather and time change, making it darker earlier, an excuse to stay home.
I talk about and have written about the importance of changing up fitness routines to keep them fresh and to continue to see progress.
Remember, the season change can be one of those times. Just because it’s getting colder and at the same time darker earlier in the afternoon, doesn’t mean it’s time to stop working out or hibernate until Spring.
One reason for holiday season weight gain is due to sedentary life styles and over eating.
A decrease in exercise and an increase in eating due to parties and family gatherings is a lethal combination that will kill any progress and results accomplished over the past spring and summer season.
Before we know it, we’re back to the same weight (if not more) than the year before.
Here are a few ideas for bringing your workouts inside.
1. Try a class. For those who enjoy working out with a group kickboxing, kettle bells, boot camp and Zumba are great examples of fun group classes that will provide cardio, resistance training and a variety of challenges that will keep you from getting bored.
2. If classes aren’t your thing, having a daily workout program that incorporates a challenge for muscle and a cardio component will be able to keep you from gaining weight over the next couple months.
If you’re not able to put together workouts, there are many gyms that now offer a W.O.D., “workout of the day”, option. This is great, because all the guess work is done for you. Too bad the workouts aren’t done for you. 🙂
3. If the W.O.D. option isn’t enough structure, there’s small group and personal training as options. Some programs are designed just for the holidays. Trinity’s “Little Black Dress” is a training program I offer around the holidays to help you look your best for the holiday parties and New Year’s events.
4. Learn a new skill that is a workout in itself. For example, martial arts, dance classes and rock climbing are just a few of many indoor options that require strength, flexibility and endurance.
5. Find a group to train and workout with. Perhaps a few friends of yours that enjoy working out too. This will keep you accountable and make training more fun. Check out Team Trinity for more info on training for sports and competition.
However you decide to train over the colder months is up to you and what you enjoy. The main thing is to keep exercise as part of your daily routine and to continue to progress towards your goals, but also have fun and enjoy what you’re doing!
Start Strong, Finish Stronger!
Nathan