Day 12!! Today we want to make sure we choose NOT to lose momentum or let the weather be our excuse for not exercising! We have arrived at that time of year-the weather is unpredictable and wreaks havoc on our exercise plans. Some of us are determined to be outside as long as possible. We brave the cold and are rewarded with additional benefits, like a little more sunshine. The other benefit is in the calories we are burning. As our bodies move in the cold, they work a little harder and burn a few extra calories to maintain our body temperature. So, go on-head outside, just make sure to dress appropriately and enjoy!
For those of us who despise the cold, and for most of us when the icy rain and snow descends, moving our exercise routine indoors is inevitable. If we plan ahead, we avoid any gaps in our routines. This helps us avoid the pitfalls, like decreasing or abandoning our exercise plans. Change can be difficult for some of us, but if we plan in advance, it can be a welcome change and a good time for a fresh challenge.
Moving indoors often means we need the assistance of some equipment. This can be a draw back for some of us because it may involve some expense-and, it is happening as the holidays approach. I think you have to view it like you would any other investment. There may be some cost to you, but in the long run, the benefits far exceed those costs.
Here are some suggestions for ways to continue your exercise regimen when you have to move indoors:
I love how versatile and simple the BOSU is for both cardio and training specific muscle groups!
BOSU workouts: invest about $100 in a BOSU (BOth Sides Up). It works like a stability ball, but has a flat side, too. It comes with an instructional DVD and works really well to enhance your core as well as get your heart rate up for some cardio.
Stability balls ($20-$40) are good too, but I don’t find them as versatile, especially if you want cardio. They are good for developing your core and for flexibility.
A Stepper or elliptical can be added to your Stability ball routine for this purpose. These cover a wide price range. Of course it is better to invest more in higher quality equipment. Purchasing a skid resistant step (and a video for motivation and inspiration) would suffice.
Another cardio option is to purchase a Mag Trainer. This is great if you are already own a bicycle-this is a mounting rack so you can “ride” inside! These can be simple ($100) to complex ($300). I have a less expensive one, but it even has variable speed settings.
Don’t forget the importance of weight training as part of your plan! You can go with the elaborate, like a Bowflex which involves a high investment ($100+); however, they claim to have the added benefit of burning more calories in less time compared to some other choices. You can get very good results from a nice set of free weights or dumb bells as well –for a smaller investment (as low as $20). When combined with a stepper or BOSU, this can be a less costly but very effective option.
Finally, you can always go with a gym membership. The prices vary, as does the quality of services. Check out the post on “Choosing a Gym”. This option has some obvious advantages (you don’t have to make room for indoor equipment and work out space), as well as the social aspect. If working out with others motivates you more than working out in solitude, then this is a good investment for you.
I hope some of these suggestions are helpful for you. The main thing is to keep moving! Find a way to use the change in the weather to help you make fun, challenging changes to your workout routine. You will be ahead of the game in the spring, when everyone is trying to get their “beach body” back-your winter body will be awesome already!
Recent Comments