If you find it harder to workout in the winter, you are not alone. Don’t get frustrated if you feel like you always let your fitness routine fall to the wayside this time of year. There are many reasons why it is so hard to work out in the winter, but the ever-prevalent winter workout blues comes down to three (3) main factors:
1. It’s Cold
For those of us who live a bit further from the equator, winter means colder temperatures and, in many areas, frequent bad weather. If you are used to exercising outside, you are probably far less inclined to do so as the temperature drops. Once the snow starts to fall, all bets are off for most (and we don’t blame you).
2. It’s Dark
The shorter days in the winter months wreak havoc on everyone’s mental state whether we realize it or not. It is simply easier to justify skipping workout when it feels like there are fewer hours in the day. What’s worse, potentially serious depressive conditions like Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) are common, and even a comparatively ‘mild’ case can still rob you of your motivation to do much of anything at all.
3. It’s Busy
Winter kicks off a busy holiday season that can throw our schedules off track. Even when the festivities calm down, it can be very difficult to reclaim your usual routine and revive your fitness momentum. It can be exhausting doing so much for everyone else during this time. Don’t forget--you can’t pour from an empty cup – self-care comes first!