THE darker days of winter can make it hard to get outside and be motivated to get fit.
The dreary days seem to blend in with the nights and many people get down and even depressed.
You can't change the weather but you can change your attitude about it. All it takes is a little get up and go. Exercise is the best thing you can do for your body and mind during these darker days so the following are a few suggestions to help you become revitalized.
First of all, choose a sport or activity that gets you outside. The gym is great but exercising outside is much better because you'll be breathing fresh air. A bonus is if the sun does come out you'll get some important vitamin D!
Running, snowshoeing, cycling, dog walking, skiing/snowboarding or crosscountry skiing: I don't care what, I just care that you do! You don't need to go out for hours, 20-25 minutes, five times a week is all it takes to re-energize your body and mind.
A good coach once reminded me that if you can stay away from sickness all winter, you will come out ahead of most people. Getting sick is like taking a month off and when you realize this, you'll understand how important it is to stay healthy.
Eating properly is one of the best ways you can help your fitness and improve your body's health. Buy fresh organic produce and meats and try to eat as raw as possible. If you eat well then indulging in chocolate or other treats occasionally is fine, as long as you're fueling your body properly. I'm always amazed when people buy the best products for their cars, houses and other material possessions but are stingy on food for their own body.
Using supplements is also a great way to boost your immune system and help your body fuel itself for all the energy you put out during each day.
I use a quality multivitamin, vitamin D (since we all lack it during the winter) and MightyOmega Fish Oil. I first discovered fish oil through my partner Kim and it has been an amazing learning experience.
Fish oil does a ton of good stuff for your body, but the best thing it does is reduce inflammation, allowing you to have better quality workouts. MightyOmega Fish Oil is not produced by heat, making it potent and pure. You can check it out at North Shore Athletics.
The hardest part about any fitness plan is starting one. But once you do, you realize the benefits right away. So grab a family member or a friend and try something new and build a healthier you!
Adventurer Dave Norona is always seeking new innovative way to improve his health and hopes he inspires you to do the same. His efforts are supported by PowerBar, Columbia Sportswear and Genuine Guide Gear.
