Unlock Winter Exercise Motivation: Top Strategies to Keep Moving

Winter Workout Struggles and Solutions

Winter is upon us, bringing shorter days and colder weather. During these dark, chilly mornings, it can be challenging to muster up the energy for an early spin class or run. This article discusses how to stay motivated for your winter workouts, featuring tips from exercise experts.

Why Is Exercising in Winter More Challenging?

Winter can disrupt many people’s exercise routines. According to Matthew Bourke from The University of Queensland’s Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation, factors like the cold, bad weather, and shorter daylight hours often hinder physical activity. For many, these barriers outweigh their motivation to exercise, requiring extra effort and self-control to keep up with their fitness routines.

Furthermore, sport and exercise psychologist Emma Slade explains that some people may feel an instinctual desire to “hibernate” more in winter due to evolutionary reasons. Shorter days, less sunlight, and changes in appetite towards heartier meals may lead to a slowdown in physical activity.

How Does Low Mood Affect Exercise Motivation?

In the colder, darker winter months, it’s not uncommon for motivation struggles to arise. Many Australians report feeling flat and lethargic, with a small proportion experiencing seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that usually develops in winter. Health Direct suggests that this lack of sunlight may contribute to SAD. Symptoms of SAD in winter can include low mood, excessive sleep, lack of energy, cravings for carbohydrates and sugary foods, weight gain, and loss of interest in normal activities.

However, despite these challenges, experts agree that regular exercise is a potential remedy for some of these symptoms.

How Does Winter Affect Gym Memberships?

Gyms often see a surge of newcomers at the start of the year, but by June, 50% of new members typically cancel their memberships, according to an international fitness industry report. These cancellations, coupled with winter’s arrival, can have a double impact on exercise motivation.

What Types of Exercise Can Help Improve Motivation?

The type of exercise that boosts your motivation will depend on your personal preferences. For some, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) may provide the challenge they need, while others may find joy in a leisurely walk in the park or joining a social run club. The key is finding an activity you enjoy and incorporating it regularly into your routine.

Tips for Staying Motivated During Winter

Exercise experts suggest several strategies for maintaining motivation during the winter months. These include building a consistent exercise habit, shifting your mindset to embrace seasonal changes, identifying and addressing workout barriers, and incorporating motivational tools like music.

When Does Winter Start in Australia?

Winter in Australia officially begins on June 1 and ends on August 31. However, because of Australia’s size, the seasonal conditions experienced can vary greatly depending on the location.

When is the Winter Solstice in Australia in 2024?

The winter solstice in 2024 will occur on June 21, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.