5 Winter Exercise Winners
Personal Trainer Nikki Hathaway let's us in on the top five ways to stay active in the colder, gloomier weather!
Article By: Paula Gardner
Some want to get fit for the ski season while many just want to re-emerge in the spring all toned, trim and fit. So we asked Hathaway to tell us about the best winter activities she recommends to her clients to beat the winter woes.
The Commercial Work-Out
"This is suitable for newcomers to exercise, or just people who tend to collapse in front of the TV after a stressful day. The idea is that every time there's a commercial break you do something in the meantime—it could be push-ups, sit-ups or just running up and down the stairs".
Hathaway also recommends sitting on a medicine ball while watching TV. "You do have to start slowly and build this up, but it's very good for your posture, and you don't have to miss your favorite TV show."
Swimming
"This is great for anyone who might be overweight as the water takes the extra load. It's also easy to watch your progress as you swim an extra lap or two each session."
Yoga
"Another indoor activity, yoga is great for taking the stress out of cold, dark days and helping you find some 'me time'. A mental, as well as physical, activity, it soon becomes a focus for you to look forward to," says Hathaway.
Weight Training
Build muscles to burn calories. If you can't get to a gym, Hathaway recommends getting a weight-training video and then practising at home with a set of hand weights—great for warding off osteoporosis and shaping arms for strappy, seasonal party dresses!
Running
This is the activity that Hathaway recommends to most of her clients. "You see results faster, and each session is often an improvement. If you want to shape up quickly, this is the one." If you're fed up with centrally heated rooms, then getting out into the crisp outdoors just might be the way for you to go. And, it's economical! Says Hathway: "My running club has three sessions a week, from every level from marathon runners to beginners who are still walking half the circuit. No one gets left behind, and it costs just $30 for the year—just compare that to a gym membership."