In Maine, we don’t have four seasons; we have two: winter and spring/summer/fall. Winter lasts from November to mid-April here in the Northeast and with a possible 5+ months of snow-covered ground, it’s sometimes hard to stay with your fitness routine.
I’ll admit it: I’m not a winter person. I think the snow is beautiful, but by this time of the year, I’m ready for my garden to start blooming. I’m also ready to start running outside again and, for many of us, the treadmill looks better this time of the year than a jaunt through the snow and ice. Never fear, fellow warm-blooded Mainers, there are ways to combat the dreary days of March and April.
1. Train for something
Throughout the spring and summer, there are a ton of 5K’s, 10K’s, and triathlons. Now is the perfect time to start training for one. The bonus? Many support and raise money for great causes!
For more information about races in your area, check:
• Runner’s World
• TriFind (Triathalon Finder)
• Running in the USA
2. Try something new
Not only is doing the same workout over and over not as beneficial for your muscles, it’s boring! Always wanted to try yoga? Kickboxing? Pilates? Zumba? A dance class? There’s no better time than now!
Try new things on your own by renting or buying workout videos and working out in the comfort of your own home. Or, try a class – many programs offer the first class free, so if you don’t like it, no harm done!
3. Don’t do it alone
Not only is a class atmosphere is a great way to get re-motivated and energized on your fitness routine because it’s new, but also because of the community. With the social and economic pressure of a class, you’re less likely to quit once you’ve started.
Take it a step further and ask a friend to try the class out with you – it’s great for bonding time and motivation, plus a great workout of course! You can even train for something (see Tip #1) with a pal.
What about you? What are your tips for getting motivated during March and April?
Nicki Hicks is a fitness and nutrition enthusiast with a passion for all things healthy and organic. A web marketing specialist and search geek at flyte new media by day, Nicki works to increase her clients’ search engine visibility. By night, you might find Nicki coaching, practicing yoga, or pretending to be an artist. Nicki regularly contributes to the Guiding Stars blog.