It's Getting Cold Outside

It's Getting Cold Outside

I don't know about anyone else but the weather up here in Scotland has been a bit mad so far this winter. A week of wet windy weather (but mild) followed by days of not getting above zero and so on and so on. Either way on those colder days it certainly changed the way I coach slightly with the mantra 'once we start moving we keep moving'

There is no doubt that it makes exercising a bit more difficult to get motivated for, cold and dark mornings and evenings, de-icing the car, slippery/ icy conditions and so on and so on. But there are things we can do to keep ourselves going and most importantly keep ourselves safe out there!!

1. Wrap Up Warm

There can be the temptation to 'tough it out' but spending a session cold or trying to warm up just isn't that fun and is more likely to end up in injury. If you need to you can always take clothes off (I get it can be a pain in the arse but it's better than being cold). It may mean you sweat a bit more (and end up with a fuller wash basket) but it's still worth it. Don't forget the power of a good running beanie either, considering we lose the majority of our heat from our head, they are invaluable (and easy to be the first thing that is removed).

2. Don't forget to hydrate

It can be easy to switch to a hot coffee or hot chocolate (maybe the odd mulled wine through December) and forget that because it's colder you still need to hydrate. This is even more important when you are wrapping up warm and maybe sweating a bit more as a result. Whether it is having a bottle on your desk, reminders on your phone or in your calendar to drink or making sure you drink a pint of water with each meal. Every little helps (even better if you can throw some electrolytes in there as well!)

3. Make the effort to get sunlight when you can

One of the toughest parts of this time of year, especially if you work a 9-5, is a lack of sunlight. It can feel like everything you do is in the dark. It doesn't have to be intense exercise either but whether that is re-jigging you day to workout at lunchtime or even just take a lunchtime walk, don't underestimate the power of sunlight and fresh air!

4. Plan ahead  and check the forecast

Obviously the weather forecast is never 100% correct but it can give you an idea. Plan around it but don't let it stop you. If it's going to be icy out either pick a well gritted running route, head to a treadmill, plan a different session or plan to run with extra caution (although I would argue it might not be worth it on the risk vs reward scale). If it's going to rain, get the water proofs our and make sure your towel is on the radiator to jump into after a warm shower. 

5. Always remember - Keep it fun

Don't worry too much about it. It will probably mean things don't go to plan but remember it's meant to be fun! Maybe switch it up a bit, go to a dry slope (or a proper slope if the snow really comes!), try some different classes at the gym, go to the pool, etc. Whilst it can be a challenge this time of year, it doesn't mean it has to be boring or feel like a massive grind and it certainly doesn't mean you can't make it more exciting with a bit of variety.

Whatever you do, stay safe, have fun and get healthy!

Andy