Health coach Gunjan Taneja says winter is an ideal time to kickstart your fitness journey. Why? Your metabolism tends to be higher in cold weather, which can lead to quicker fat loss. Plus, you might find you have a better appetite and recover faster, making it a great time to eat protein-rich foods. Rather than waiting for summer, she advises building a solid fitness base now.
When the temperatures drop, it’s tempting to swap your morning jog for an extra hour under the blankets. But keeping active in winter is crucial for your energy, immunity, and mental health.
Physiotherapist Ismit Tyagi agrees with Taneja. He points out that winter lasts about two months in India. If you cut down on exercise during this time, it could hurt your fitness routine. Stopping exercise altogether means you have to start from scratch later, which can make it that much harder to get back into shape.
“Regular exercise helps prevent many chronic diseases,” he says. On the flip side, quitting can lead to health risks like muscle loss, weight gain, and even depression. It can also increase the chances of high blood sugar and blood pressure, complicating issues for those with diabetes or hypertension.
So how can you stick to your fitness goals during winter? Here are some tips from Tyagi:
Join Group Workouts: Sign up for yoga classes or other group workouts. Exercising with friends keeps you motivated.
Set Personal Challenges: Create monthly or weekly fitness goals to track your progress.
Work Out at Home: If you’re worried about laziness, consider online tutorials or fitness apps that fit your needs.
Dress for Success: Wear the right gear, like base layers and gloves, to stay warm while exercising.
Keep It Interesting: Mix different types of workouts into your routine to avoid boredom.
With a bit of planning, winter can be a time to boost your fitness, not hinder it. Remember, consistent exercise not only improves physical health but also supports mental well-being. Always consider seeking advice from health professionals before starting any new fitness routine.
For more tips on staying healthy during the colder months, you might find resources from organizations like the Mayo Clinic helpful.
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winter fitness, metabolism, fat loss, exercise routine, weight loss, muscle mass, health goals, social workouts, consistency, blood pressure
