Why It Is Even More Important to Workout in the Winter
Winter is typically the season people start hibernating, but, unlike bears, we do not need a thick layer of fat to get us through the winter, unfortunately. We know climbing out of bed when the air is chilly and the sun has not yet risen for a morning workout can seem next to impossible or driving to the gym instead of straight home after a long day at work is the last thing you may want to do. However, working out in the winter months is essential for not only your physical health, but your mental health as well.
Here are five reasons to work out in the winter.
The sun is your friend
Vitamin D is so important, and while you can get it from a limited amount of food, direct sunlight on bare skin is the easiest source. During the summer 10 to 15 minutes outside is plenty of time to get Vitamin D, but sunshine is a bit harder to come by in the winter, and, typically, the frigid temperatures do not allow extended stays outside. So, if you find a sunny day that does not have a frostbite warning, head outside for a walk or jog to promote healthy bones, support your immune system, brain, and nervous system, and support lung function and cardiovascular health.
It keeps you healthy
Research has consistently shown that regular exercise strengthens your immune system, helping you fight off bacterial and viral infections. This becomes especially important when it seems everyone is sneezing and coughing around you in the winter.
When you exercise, your blood is pumped through your body faster, which means your immune cells circulate through your body more quickly, helping them identify and destroy infections. However, this benefit only lasts a few hours unless exercise is regular.
Say goodbye to the winter blues
Whether you are affected by the winter blues or the more serious SAD (seasonal affective disorder) winter can have a serious dark cloud over it. A daily workout will release the body’s “feel-good” brain chemicals, providing some relief from depression, SAD, or just feeling down in general. Just 45 minutes a day could get you through the entirety of winter with a whole new outlook.
Breathe deep
Staying inside for the duration of winter means you are not getting a lot of fresh air. Recirculated air can spread germs much more quickly, meaning a sickness could be right around the corner. Head outside and take a jog, making sure to breathe deep to give your lungs a break from the harsher indoor air.
Don’t pack on the extra pounds
Loading up on comfort food is a given during the holidays. While indulging feels good and satisfying for a while, usually, our feelings turn to guilt shortly after. It is incredibly easy to pack on extra pounds in the winter because clothes are generally looser and food is generally richer. The average person puts on nearly 9 pounds during the winter weight gain period. This is not to say stop enjoying holiday food, just squeeze a few extra workouts in when you can.