Winter Survival Guide

Written By Rachael Bischoff

As we face the shortest day of the year and the winter chill, hitting a few bumps on your fitness journey is totally normal. No worries - I've written a guide with some quick tips to overcome common challenges and keep you on track.

Schedule Time to Work Out

One of the most common challenges is finding time to exercise. Life can be busy, but here are a few strategies to help you fit workouts into your schedule:

  • Plan Ahead: Schedule your workouts like you would any other important appointment. Block out time in your calendar and stick to it.

  • Short and Effective: You don’t need to spend hours in the gym. Even a 20-30 minute high-intensity workout can be very effective.

  • Incorporate Activity: Look for ways to add more activity into your day, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going for a walk during lunch breaks.

 

Stay Motivated                    

Staying motivated can be tough, especially when progress seems slow. Here are some tips to keep your motivation high:

  • Set Realistic Goals: Break down your larger goals into smaller, achievable milestones. Celebrate each accomplishment to keep yourself motivated.

  • Find a Workout Buddy: Working out with mates is ALWAYS more fun, plus its a great way to keep each other accountable.

  • Track Your Progress: Keep a journal or use a fitness app to log your workouts and track your progress. Seeing how far you've come can be a great motivator.Get a Coach: Keep a journal or use a fitness app to log your workouts and track your progress. Seeing how far you've come can be a great motivator.

     

Push Through the Plateaus

Everyone hits a plateau at some point. Here’s how to push through:

  • Change Your Routine: Mix up your workouts to challenge your body in new ways. Try new exercises, increase weights, or change the intensity.

  • Check Your Nutrition: Make sure your diet is supporting your fitness goals. Sometimes small tweaks in your nutrition can make a big difference.

  • Rest and Recover: Don’t underestimate the power of rest. Ensure you're getting enough sleep and taking rest days to allow your muscles to recover.

 

Move Safely to Avoid Injury

Injuries can derail your progress, so it’s important to exercise safely:

  • Warm Up and Cool Down: Always start with a warm-up to prepare your body for exercise and finish with a cool-down to aid recovery.

  • Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body feels and don’t push through pain. Rest if something doesn’t feel right.

  • Proper Form: Focus on using correct form for each exercise to prevent injuries. If you’re unsure, consider working with a coach to learn proper techniques.

Need help in getting started?

Rachael Bischoff