Do you struggle with staying active and fit in the colder months as much as I do? As I write today’s post, we have our first snowfall of the year. While today’s snow is light and the sidewalks are clear of ice, I know that even harsher weather is on the way. So I’m teaming up with Athleta, my favorite activewear brand, to share with you five ways to stay active outside in winter.
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No. 1 – Know your why.
I’m only as motivated to keep moving and working out in the colder months as the importance of my why. If I’m trying to get outside in the cold for walks because “it’s good for me” or “I need to lose a few pounds,” I won’t be very successful.
But if my why is more personal, more specific and more far-reaching, I’ll be much more likely to keep moving even when it’s cold and wet outside. Here are some truly motivating whys for me, but you may have others that compel you. Regular, intense and consistent physical activity will:
- help my immune system stay strong, guarding me against winter viruses and germs
- help me sleep better at night, which is also crucial in keeping me healthy
- lift my spirits in the doldrums of winter, helping to prevent seasonal depression
- strengthen my bones and muscles, so important especially as I’m over 60
- lower my blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- help me to maintain a healthy weight
- improve balance and agility, all the more important as I age
No. 2 – Invest in warm, attractive and comfortable activewear for the season.
Yeah, you knew this was coming. But this one tip is probably the most motivating of all for me. I HATE working out in ugly, uncomfortable workout clothing. In fact, I just won’t do it. On the other hand, if I have warm activewear like my navy Ranier high rise leggings to keep my legs warm while also looking sleek and stylish, I actually look forward to putting them on and getting outside.
The Ranier leggings are constructed in their plush Supersonic fabric with a soft, brushed interior, so they are made for cold weather workouts and activities. They come in a lot of colors and sizes XXS to 3X. Use their size guide for the best fit. I’m wearing a size large, which is what I should wear according to their guide.
For a walk at a local trail, I’m wearing the Ranier leggings with my Ascent seamless top and the Inlet vest, also from Athleta. The Ascent top is in Merino wool blend that is super soft and temperature controlling. It’s available in several colors in sizes XXS to XL. I’m wearing a large for a roomier fit. And the Inlet vest is made with lightweight, breathable down, perfect for cold weather activities. The vest comes in XXS to 3X. And I may have failed to mention it, but most Athleta garments come in regular, tall and petite fits. Cool!
Right now Athleta is offering you a Holiday Head Start with significant savings on select items, including their Ascent and Altitude lines, both of which are geared to cold weather activity and travel. So it’s a great time to invest in workout clothes you can look forward to putting on each day.
No. 3 – Bundle up and get outside for a walk.
Sure, I’m a firm believer in doing some weight training, and you can certainly achieve those workouts in the warmth of your home or a gym. But getting outside for fresh air and sunshine (even if it’s behind the clouds) will actually keep you more motivated and inspired through the winter months. Getting out in the daylight at dawn can also help set your circadian clock so that you stay more alert during the day and fall asleep better at night.
No. 4 – Find a good podcast to listen to or phone a friend.
About the only time of day I get to listen to a podcast or spend time with a friend or family member on the phone is while I’m out walking. That motivates me to lace up my sneakers and get out there. So not only is my walk good exercise, but it provides a reprieve from work and an opportunity for much needed socialization.
Make sure you have activewear with secure zip pockets so you can carry your phone on your walk. The Altitude fleece lined funnel neck sweatshirt above has an ample kangaroo zip pocket, perfect for carrying my phone while I listen to a favorite podcast or talk to my mom.
No. 5 – Explore new places to walk.
My Altitude fleece lined Stash high rise leggings above are super comfortable. I did size up to a large, but might could have worn the medium. Still, I’d rather my workout clothes be a little big rather than tight. They are sleek on the outside, soft and cozy on the inside, perfect for long walks on the trail or a coffee run on a cold winter day.
I find it’s helpful to get out and explore new walking trails or neighborhoods, especially in the winter when the doldrums nip at my heels.
Thanks so much for stopping in today. I hope you feel a little more motivated to get out for some fresh air and exercise, even if it is cold outside. Don’t forget to check out Athleta’s Holiday Head Start deals for great savings. This is the time to prep your wardrobe with cold weather activewear so you’ll have one less excuse for that winter walk.
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Blessed for My Day
We can maintain more muscle and keep up our cardio health by getting in regular physical exercise. So the more we do, the healthier and stronger we become. But when it comes to the stamina of our soul, things work a little differently.
The Bible tells us in Isaiah 40 that we will gain new strength…not by doing more or working hard or getting ahead of the game…but by waiting for the Lord. Today if you are going through a difficult season and you find yourself weary from carrying the load, take courage. You don’t have to do more or work harder to get through this. You need, instead, to wait for the Lord. Of course, that’s not always easy. But it’s definitely doable.
Though youths grow weary and tired,
And vigorous young men stumble badly,
Yet those who wait for the Lord
Will gain new strength;
They will mount up with wings like eagles,
They will run and not get tired,
They will walk and not become weary. ~ Isaiah 40:30-31
Hi Kay,
I wish you a happy Thanksgiving Day with your family . (We don”t have this Day in France) 😘
I really like this post and the “coordinating” devotional thought. Thank you for both. I will be embracing your “why” list – it’s just about a perfect fit. Have a beautiful Thanksgiving!