Warm up to winter exercise

As winter fast approaches and the morning chill starts to bite, it can be tempting to pour yourself a hot cuppa and hunker down indoors rather than throwing on the sneakers and heading outdoors.

Unfortunately, slowing down too much puts us on a fast-track to not getting enough exercise and running the risks that come with putting our physical and mental health on the backburner.

The key, according to the Victorian government’s Better Health Channel, might be honing in on a form of exercise that suits you best.

The more you like it, the more likely you are to stick at it.

Whatever form of exercise you choose, finding a training buddy can make you more likely to commit to a physical activity routine simply because you won’t want to let them down.

Team sports and group physical activity programs are other options to consider as they have the added benefit of increasing your social circle through the new people you are likely to meet.

Another thing to consider is your health goals.

“While any type of physical activity is good for you, different physical activities offer different results. Deciding your health goals will steer you towards the right intensity of activity for you,” the Better Health Channel website advises.

“For example, weight-bearing activities such as walking, running, weight training or cycling are good choices for weight management because they help burn kilojoules.”

For anyone who really hates the cold, there are options such as online workouts or yoga you can do in the comfort of your own lounge room.

Home fitness equipment or a gym/yoga studio membership might be other options worth exploring.

When it comes to cost-saving activities walking, jogging, cycling and swimming are all hard to beat.

The Better Health Channel offers the following things to consider when deciding of which exercise is the best fit for you:

• Choose an indoor activity if you are bothered by weather extremes such as heat or cold
• Enjoyment is the key to sticking to an exercise plan. Choose an activity you enjoy, not one you think is ‘good for you’
• Think back. Did you enjoy a particular physical activity as a child, such as cycling or basketball? If so, give that activity another go
• Keep your budget in mind. Some physical activities, such as skiing or sailing, can require a big financial investment
• Be realistic about your current health and level of fitness. If you are a beginner, the physical demands of certain activities (such as running) may be too much at first. Choose a gentler alternative and work your way up.

So, rather than throwing another log on the fire or reaching for the Ugg boots, why not throw on some exercise gear and get started?  You’ll warm up in no time.