As the days get shorter and temperatures drop, it’s no surprise that our motivation to
stay active can take a hit. It feels much easier to stay home in your cosy spot than it is
to get up and move, let alone leave the house to do so. But maintaining physical activity
through winter is crucial for both your physical and mental wellbeing.
Lost motivation is not a failure, it is okay and normal to go through those periods. It is
important not to be too hard on yourself and instead, use the strategies that work best
for you to get back to it. Here are some tips you could try to help you sustain healthy
activity habits and stay motivated during the colder months:
- Set Seasonal Goals
Adjust your movement goals to fit the season. Maybe the ocean pool has become just a
little too chilly for you to brave and continue swimming after Summer. Instead, it could
be a great time to shift your focus on building strength or improving mobility, both of
which you can do indoors! It is a good idea to modify your goals to make them more
realistic and achievable. - Schedule Your Workouts Like Appointments
Shorter days can make it feel like there’s never enough time, so it’s easy to push
exercise to the bottom of the list. One way to overcome this is to schedule your
workouts just like any other important appointment. Put them in your calendar and treat
them as non-negotiable. - Layer Up and Get Outside
Cold weather doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors. With the right clothing and
preparation, winter walks, jogs, or hikes can be just as lovely as summer ones. You’ll
probably find once you get moving, you’ll warm up some more! Getting some natural
sunlight during the day also helps regulate your mood and sleep. - Bring It Indoors
If the idea of braving the cold is just too much, take your workouts inside. You can
exercise in your home, a friend’s place, or a gym. An exercise physiologist can help you
create a personalised home or gym program that considers what you have available,
your goals and specific needs. - Find an Accountability Partner
Exercising with a friend, family member, or group can help you and others stay
committed. One of our group classes might be a suitable option for you and perhaps
you could bring a friend or even make a friend! - Use Music to Your Advantage
If you’re feeling sluggish in the morning or after work, you might find that your favourite
upbeat music is enough to steer you away from the lounge and keep you moving.
Making a ‘Workout Playlist’ is a good way to select those songs you know get you
motivated. - Be Kind to Yourself
It’s natural to have days or weeks where your motivation dips. Instead of getting
discouraged, focus on consistency over perfection. Even a short walk or stretching
session is a win. Try your best to reintroduce some movement, even if it’s not at your
usual pace or intensity. - Consult a Professional
If you’re unsure where to start or how to adapt your exercise routine for the season,
working with an Accredited Exercise Physiologist can help. We can tailor a plan to your
specific needs, health conditions, and environment—keeping you safe, motivated, and
on track all winter long!
