When the weather gets colder; when we see the sun less; when our mood is falling as fast as the thermometer; when it becomes harder and harder to get motivated for that sweat sesh; and you’re starting to feel like nothing but a very full, very strong pot of coffee will get you out of bed, take comfort in knowing you’re officially part of the club. You are not alone.
Then, perk up, read these 5 tips to get yourself back on track to crushing your goals. Find out how the we like to kick the winter blues to the curb.
Strength in numbers
Take a class at REV! There is proof of strength in numbers-yes, that’s YOU, REV tribe! Regardless of the season (but especially in winter), working out as part of a group in a class setting does wonders for your mental health. You get to laugh, cry, sweat and hell, even dance with some of your closest friends.. And guess what, the endorphins after class keep you happy way past those 45 minutes. So come on in and chase Old Man Winter the hell out of Baltimore!
Set a goal for yourself that requires you to stay motivated through the winter
Thinking about completing an Ironman or a 50K like some of the REV instructors or fellow REVer Heather Pruger (quick shoutout to Heather for completing her first 50K, one word girl, BADASS!)? This goal can keep you going, even on the tough days. You know that if you don’t work for it, you won’t be able to complete your goals. Before you know it, it will be Spring and you will be kicking butt and crossing that finish line!
Exercise outdoors. Yes, outdoors!
Talking yourself into taking a walk when the temperatures plummet isn’t easy, but the benefits are big: Spending time outside (even when it’s chilly!) can improve focus, reduce symptoms of Seasonal Affect Disorder, and lower stress levels. So bundle up and walk to work, walk your pup, or walk with a friend for a hot beverage! Remember, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear.
Find joy in the little things
Sometimes it’s easy to take the little things for granted. We’ve discovered if you turn up the heat for just a bit, put on summer clothes, and eat your favorite warm-weather foods, it will put a smile on your face. Ice cream in the winter, yes please. Not feeling the summer clothes idea? Get yourself into warm and cozy gear. There’s nothing quite like wearing your favorite joggers and snuggling on the couch under a warm blanket. Also, remember to dress in layers to keep that body warmth going after class.
Book a staycation — even if it’s a mini one
You know that boost of happiness when you have something to look forward to? (Besides your daily class at REV, wink wink) If your coworker’s upcoming Bermuda vacation has you dreaming of traveling, who says you can’t save money and still get that boost by planning mini-getaways of your own! Plan a local staycation treat, such as an afternoon axe throwing with friends (this is REV tested and approved), trying out a new restaurant in a nearby town, or going to a concert. Grab your gang and gear up for fun.
Brush off that BLAH feeling because there are plenty of things you can do to keep that smile we all know and love!