Some of my favourite workouts and fitness tips for the colder months
As the temperature drops and winter sets in, maintaining a consistent exercise routine might seem more challenging.
However, the colder months present an excellent opportunity to optimise your workouts and focus on specific exercises that complement the winter season.
So, let me guide you through the best gym exercises tailored to make the most of the winter months and keep your fitness journey on track.
Indoor cardio workouts
Treadmill runs: When outdoor running becomes less appealing due to weather conditions, the treadmill offers a controlled environment for cardiovascular workouts. Mix up your runs with interval training for added intensity.
Stationary cycling: Utilise stationary bikes for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions or longer endurance rides to maintain cardiovascular fitness.
Strength training
Full-body workouts: Opt for compound exercises that engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously. Squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and pull-ups are excellent choices to build overall strength.
Focus on core stability: Incorporate exercises that target core stability, such as planks, Russian twists, and stability ball exercises. A strong core is essential for functional movement and injury prevention.
Indoor group classes
HIIT classes: High-intensity interval training classes are efficient workouts that can be adapted to various fitness levels. They offer a mix of cardio and strength exercises in a structured format.
Yoga or pilates: These classes promote flexibility, core strength, and mind-body connection. They can be particularly beneficial during the winter months to counterbalance the effects of reduced outdoor activity.
Flexibility and mobility work
Stretching: Incorporate regular stretching sessions to maintain flexibility and prevent muscle tightness, especially during the colder months.
Foam rolling: If you have the time at the gym, fit in some regular foam rolling to ease out the knots and tightness of post-workout muscle.
Winter also presents the opportunity to exercise in the great outdoors and to embrace the bracing thrill of running and park cardio'. These may not be everyone's tastes (!), but there do add an extra dimension to your workout if you are looking for fresh air, fantastic light (particularly in the morning) and fresh air.
Whatever you choose to do this winter when you exercise, whether indoors or out, maintain a regular workout schedule and enjoy the seasonal change.
Julien