© Shutterstock

Move your outdoor workout indoors -

A simple step for those who really hate facing harsh weather is to move your regular workout indoors. Whether it's hitting the treadmill or doing sweaty home workouts, try to exercise for the same time as you would normally outdoors in more favorable weather.

©

Shutterstock

Invest in new kit -

Investing in a slick new kit can be just the motivation you need to get going. By splashing out on weather-appropriate workout gear, you'll not only be ready to face the elements (even if it's just on the way to the gym), but you'll look good doing it.

©

Shutterstock

Have your kit ready the night before -

If you usually work out in the mornings, don't let that change when it's cold and dark. Have your kit ready by the bed the night before–that way you'll avoid a demotivating hunt to find something clean and dry.

©

Shutterstock

Keep your gym bag at the ready -

Keep a gym bag (with a clean kit) ready in your car or at work. That way you'll always be ready to hit the gym or head out for a run.

©

Shutterstock

Sign up for a class -

If you usually exercise solo, signing up for a class can provide extra motivation to show up. And if you already take part in group workouts, shaking up the routine by checking out any new classes on offer can provide a mental boost.

© Shutterstock

Sign up to a fitness challenge -

Whether you're working out at home or in the gym, there are lots of fitness challenges that set a workout schedule over a given period of time - typically up to 30 days. Often free via workout websites such as Fitness Blender, they can take the hassle out of choosing which workouts to do each day.

©

Shutterstock

Make it a non-negotiable -

See your workouts as a non-negotiable, factoring them into your routine just as you would any other essential element of your day. Allow for factors such  as extreme weather, and make sure you have a workout plan B.

© Shutterstock

Fire up your playlist -

Getting some new, uplifting tunes on your workout playlist can shake up your routine and provide an extra motivation to get your body moving. The combination of exercise endorphins and feel-good music can be extremely addictive!

©

Shutterstock

Set yourself achievable goals -

Having a series of goals will give you something to aim for during the winter. Whether it's aiming to lift heavier, run faster, or begin training for a future competition, make sure you aim for something that will push you without being so challenging that you give up at the first hurdle.

© Shutterstock

Mix up your workouts -

Mixing up your workouts to include strength, cardio, and flexibility training can help keep the entire body fit and strong, and avoid overloading one muscle group. It should keep boredom at bay, too.

©

Shutterstock

Find home gym hacks -

If you don't have the budget for a gym membership or home equipment, there are plenty of ways to incorporate everyday objects into your indoor routine. Water bottles can serve as weights, while furniture can be used for everything from tricep dips to elevated push-ups.

© Shutterstock

Turn up the heat on your workout -

Getting fresh air can be good for mind and body, and cool, crisp weather can make outdoor exercise surprisingly pleasurable. Wear moisture-wicking layers and opt for the type of heart rate-raising exercises that will warm you up quickly.

©

Shutterstock

Buddy up -

Finding an exercise buddy will not only turn your workout into a social occasion, but it will also give you both extra motivation to show up.

©

Shutterstock

Apps for accountability -

If you can't find a winter workout partner, or simply prefer working out alone, you might want to try a fitness tracking app. Some sports watches even have a 'virtual coach' that will help you train for a certain time or distance in running, cycling, or swimming.

©

Shutterstock

Dance -

Dancing is such a feel-good activity that it almost doesn't feel like a workout at all. But energetic dance workouts can be big calorie burners, will work a range of muscles, and you can pick up some new steps to impress people at holiday parties!

©

Shutterstock

Find what works -

If you don't enjoy your workouts at the best of times, it's going to be extra difficult to get fired up for them when winter weather rolls around. Find something that you genuinely enjoy, whether it's CrossFit, spin class, or trampolining!

©

Shutterstock

Exercise at the same time each day -

Routine can be key to success in sticking to a workout routine. Whether you prefer to exercise first thing, during your lunch hour, or after work, try to keep to a fixed schedule.

©

Shutterstock

Find go-to online teachers -

Even if you usually prefer to work out outdoors or at the gym, having go-to online classes and teachers is a good backup plan. If a gym session is canceled or the weather is too harsh to head out, you won't have to flounder around online looking for a class that suits you.

©

Shutterstock

Consider a personal trainer -

If you're looking for extra motivation and accountability during the winter months, you might want to consider a personal trainer. They will be able to target your workout schedule to suit your goals and your current fitness level.

©

Shutterstock

Write down what you want to achieve -

Think about what you want to achieve with your winter workouts. Whether you want to earn a new personal best in a race, gain muscle mass, lose weight, or just give yourself a mood-boosting bit of 'me time,' putting it down on paper can be a good way to set clear goals.

©

Shutterstock

Try hot yoga -

'Hot yoga' classes, where instructors put yogis through their paces in a sweat-inducing hot room, can seem extra appealing when it's cold outside.

©

Shutterstock 

Keep each other accountable -

If you attend group classes, try to keep everybody accountable by making firm plans for a sociable coffee or juice after class.

©

Shutterstock

Bring hot drinks -

If you're exercising outdoors, bring a flask of your preferred hot drink along with your water bottle. Then you can enjoy it after your workout as your body starts to cool down.

©

Shutterstock

Give yourself a healthy reward -

If you have a tough class, long run, or other arduous exercise class on the horizon, think of a healthy treat you can enjoy after class. It might be 10 minutes in the sauna at the gym, or a new pair of trainers you've been eyeing up.

© Shutterstock

Sign up for a race -

Race schedules tend to slow down during the winter, but if there's something on the horizon, then signing up for it will be a solid reason to stick to your training routine. Even if there are no winter races, there may be group training activities for spring events.

©

Shutterstock

Find new routes -

Finding a new running or cycling route can make routine workouts more enjoyable. Get out a map, get off the beaten track, and you can up the fun factor in your cold weather outdoor activities.

©

Shutterstock

Savor the post-workout sensations -

Exercise releases feel-good hormones, like dopamine, that can help keep depression and anxiety at bay. Sit for a minute with a hot drink after your workout, and enjoy the flood of positive energy. Remembering how good it feels should keep you coming back for more!

©

Shutterstock

Fuel your body -

Be sure to give your body the fuel it needs to power through winter workouts. Energy-giving oats topped with immune system-boosting fruit and nuts is a good place to start.

©

Shutterstock

Put a fitness kit on your presents list -

Make your exercise intentions clear to yourself and others by putting fitness equipment at the top of your holiday gifts list. That way you'll have extra incentive to keep going right through the festive season!

Sources: (The Zoe Report) (The Guardian)

See also: Last year's best fitness apps

©

Shutterstock