Winter Workout Essentials and Tips
Staying motivated and committed to working out can be pretty difficult during the cold, winter months. It is so tempting to cozy up next to the fire place with some tea, your dog and a new book. However, you might kick yourself for that later.
Living in Colorado, I have noticed that a lot of people like to workout outside rather than in a gym. That makes complete sense since we live in one of the most beautiful places. Working out outside during the cold months is challenging, but doable. I would recommend supplementing your normal workouts with some indoor classes and gym equipment such as the treadmill, bike, or elliptical. However, going outside is not off limit. It’s actually manageable.
Personally, I like working out outside. Since I continue working out during the cold, winter months I’ve invested in some useful products that make my workout more enjoyable.
1. Thermal and moisture-wicking tops and leggings
I would recommend buying some thermals that are moisture-wicking so that you stay dry and warm during your cold winter workout.
2. Gloves/Hand warmers
Working out is no fun when you feel like your hands are so cold, they might fall off. Investing in a pair of gloves or hand warmers can save you on your morning run.
3. Hat/beanie
Our heads get cold very quickly and once your head is cold, most of your body feels that chill as well. Therefore, it is important to keep our heads warm. I suggest investing in some beanies and/or ear muffs.
4. Vaseline or Chapstick
Colorado is dry all year round. However, the winter months can be brutal and the coldness dries out our skin and lips. Vaseline is a cheap alternative to some other products. Another product I would recommend are the EOS lip balms. They smell great and keep your lips moist!
5. Reflective Shoes
During winter, we don’t have many hours of sunshine. Therefore, it is sometimes hard to be seen by cars and other modes of transportation in the early morning and evening. A lot of workout clothes and shoes are now adding reflective strips to their clothes. There are some many fun shoes and clothes out there with these strips. However, if you don’t feel like buying a whole new wardrobe, you can always invest in something cheaper, like a vest. I would recommend the Nathan Bandolier Reflective Running Vest.
6. Water Bottle
It can be hard to remind myself to stay hydrated during winter because of how cold it is outside. However, I have to remind myself that I am sweating just as much as I do in the heat of the summer. Therefore, staying hydrated is essential after any workout. Water is a great source of hydration. If you are looking for something else, I would suggest Coconut Water, Nuun, or PowerAde Zero. If you are looking for a new water bottle, I would recommend Camelback, Ello, Nalgene or Bobble.
