HOW TO STAY MOTIVATED IN WINTER.
Don’t let winter stop you from exercising.
How to Stay Motivated to Exercise in Winter
When the days get shorter and the temperature drops, it’s easy for exercise routines to slip away. Cold weather, darker mornings, and cozy indoor comforts can make it feel much harder to stay active. But staying consistent with your fitness routine through winter is crucial for both your physical health and mental wellbeing.
At JY Exercise Physiology, I understand the seasonal struggle. Here are our top tips to help you stay motivated and keep moving all winter long.
1. Set New Winter Goals
Winter is a great time to reset your fitness goals. Rather than aiming for your summer fitness benchmarks, focus on goals that make sense for the colder months. Maybe you aim for a certain number of walks each week, increase your strength training sessions, or improve your flexibility with yoga.
Pro Tip: Make your goals SMART. Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
2. Create a Warm and Inviting Exercise Space
If getting outside feels unappealing, set up a cozy area at home for exercise. You don’t need fancy equipment — just a mat, some resistance bands, a few dumbbells, and a good playlist can go a long way.
Having a dedicated space makes it easier to show up for your workout, even when it’s chilly.
3. Invest in Quality Winter Workout Gear
Comfortable, weather appropriate clothing can make a massive difference. Layer up with breathable, moisture wicking materials. Good gloves, beanies, and jackets designed for movement will help you brave the colder weather.
Remember: There’s no bad weather, only the wrong clothing!
4. Schedule Your Workouts
Winter days can fill up quickly, so schedule your workouts like you would a meeting. Put them in your calendar and treat them as non-negotiable. Morning sessions can be particularly effective for setting a positive tone for the day.
5. Try New Indoor Activities
Winter is the perfect time to explore new forms of movement. Consider activities like:
Pilates
Indoor cycling
Strength training
Dance workouts
Yoga or mobility flows
Keeping your routine fresh can spark excitement and motivation.
6. Find an Accountability Partner
Working out with a friend or joining a group program can help keep you consistent. Sharing your goals and checking in with someone else provides extra motivation, especially on the days when staying under a blanket sounds tempting.
7. Focus on How Movement Makes You Feel
In winter, it's easy to lose sight of why you exercise. Shift your focus from appearance-based goals to the mental and emotional benefits:
Increased energy
Reduced stress
Better sleep
Improved mood
Remind yourself after each session how much better you feel, and use that as fuel to keep going.
8. Be Flexible and Gentle with Yourself
Winter can be challenging, and some days won't go as planned. That's okay! Adapt your workouts when needed. A short stretch session or a gentle walk is still valuable. Consistency over perfection is what matters.
9. Celebrate Small Wins
Every time you show up for yourself in winter, it's a win. Celebrate it! Tracking your sessions or treating yourself to small rewards (like a new book, cozy socks, or a delicious smoothie) can boost motivation.
How JY Exercise Physiology Can Help You Stay Active This Winter
At JY Exercise Physiology, I offer personalised support to keep you moving safely and consistently, no matter the season. We design programs that fit your energy levels, goals, and preferences indoors or outdoors.
Whether you're looking to maintain strength, improve mobility, manage a chronic condition, or just stay motivated, we are here to help with expert guidance and a friendly, encouraging approach.
Keep Moving, Stay Warm, and Feel Great
Winter can be a beautiful time to focus on self-care and build resilience. By staying active, you're boosting your immunity, supporting mental health, and laying a strong foundation for the months ahead.
Ready to create your winter fitness plan ? Contact JY Exercise Physiology today and let's get started.
Located in Upper Mount Gravatt and speak with an Accredited Exercise Physiologist now to discuss how I can facilitate your needs.
Feel free to explore our other blogs to learn more and gain additional insights.
Call +61 421 967 711
