Are you using the weather as an excuse to miss those home workouts? Are you struggling to find your mojo when it’s cold?

Training during winter is not always easy, but it is possible. Here are 6 ways to stay motivated and on track throughout the colder months:

#1 Get going with your favourite song

Starting your day with your favourite motivational song will definitely get you going. A tune that lifts your mood and energy, instead of the sound of an annoying alarm clock, will do wonders for your ability to get out of bed when it’s cold outside and stops the excuses from holding you back. So, whether it’s Rocky’s ‘Eye of the Tiger’ or Eminem’s ‘Lose Yourself’ that gets you going, use it to your advantage to take on the day!

#2 Get a training buddy

There is no better motivation for getting out of a bed on your first try than having a training buddy waiting for you – even if that’s a virtual meet up. Connecting with a training buddy via Google Meet, Zoom or a WhatsApp video call will make your at-home session more enjoyable.

You ideally need someone who is as committed as you are and who will hold you accountable for showing up (or logging in). Having a workout partner who is counting on you makes it more difficult to roll over and go back to sleep.

#3 New workout gear

When you’re in a winter slump it’s always a good idea to try something new and add some excitement to your routine.

If you’re struggling to maintain your momentum when the temperature drops, some new (warmer) clothing can make a huge difference. Going to a store and buying some new workout gear can give you a motivation boost, so you can get up and take on the challenge!

#4 Set a realistic goal

If you’ve been slacking off when it comes to goal-setting, it’s definitely time for a change. Whether you want to work on weak points, lose weight or improve your endurance, set a reasonable goal and make it as specific as possible.

Remember, once you get moving, it will actually help boost your body’s ‘feel-good’ endorphins to help you blast through training inertia and achieve those new goals.

#5 Eat clean

People easily fall into a winter hibernation mode where they eat everything in sight. The colder temperatures seem to prompt excess warm, comforting dishes that appear in front of you! Binging will only make all your training sessions harder.

Don’t let the icy weather dictate your eating habits. Stick to a proper meal plan that will give you energy and stamina when you need it most. Invest in healthy food choices that will help you train harder and achieve your goal, and leave the tempting, unhealthy snacks in the store.

#6 Try something new

If you dread doing a specific workout or exercise, there is no way you are going to keep up with your routine. Choose something that you actually enjoy doing.

If you do what you like, you’ll have no problem in convincing yourself to do it.

If your motivation levels remain depressed, it might be the perfect time to try something new and exciting in your training, so don’t be scared to switch things up. By giving yourself a new challenge, you’ll power through the cold months and emerge on the other side of winter a better version of your current self.