When Harsh Winters Stop Your Running Routine Cold

If you live in an area with cold winters, you know the challenges of maintaining your workout routine, especially when it normally involves a lot of outdoor activity. It can be tough to stay motivated when we get snowed in, or when the weather is just too nasty to train outside. Here are some tips for staying healthy and fit when you are stuck inside.

1.    Ward off illness.

Flu season is knocking at your door, threatening to render you totally inactive. Prevent sickness by washing your hands a lot, drinking plenty of water, eating healthy foods, and wearing a mask around others who are sick. Keep yourself moving, but also be sure to rest when you need it. That way, when you are back to running outside or able to make it to your school’s gym or track, you are healthy and ready to get moving.

2.    Utilize media for fitness resources.

Watch workout videos on YouTube or join health and fitness groups on Facebook for tips, ideas, and peer motivation. You can also rent fitness DVD’s from the library if you know a snowstorm is headed your way.

3.    Get creative.

Make a colorful fitness wheel with activities such as: do 25 push-ups, play with the dog, dance like you just don’t care for three full songs, etc. Spin the wheel occasionally to ward off sluggishness and invite family members to participate.

4.    Look at it as an opportunity to switch up your running routine.

Instead of doing your usual workout and daily routine, see this time as a chance to try new ways of staying healthy and active. Maybe you’ll discover a love for yoga, meditation, step aerobics, or a new dance style. These activities may even improve your running performance over the long term.

Don’t let being stuck in the house ruin your positive attitude and active lifestyle. You will be running again in no time. Be kind to yourself, listen to your body, and recognize the benefits of a change in routine.