The first frost has been and gone and with the night’s drawing in and the cold weather really starting to bite, I know how tough it can be to stay motivated over the winter months.

It’s all too easy to cosy up at home with a glass of wine in front of the woodburner, rather than motivate yourself to go to the gym or attend a class.

It’s dark, it’s cold. Who wants to go out in that?

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone! But at The Fitness Room, Honeybourne, we offer a warm welcome in the gym and all our classes. What’s more, we are experts at keeping you focused so that you want to come and work out with us – even when it’s dark and cold!

Still not convinced? There are ways of making it easier for you to keep up your exercise routine during winter. Here are our top tips.

1.Set goals

Having a fixed goal to work towards is proven to increase motivation and focus. For example, if you have a target weight that you want to achieve, it’s a far more tangible goal than simply wanting to lose ‘a bit of’ weight. Goals should be specific and achievable, and if you have that then you’re far more likely to get up and out on those cold winter days.

2.Work out with a partner

If you’re able to, then find someone who can exercise with you. Having someone else to push you when your motivation levels are sagging can be a huge help and having a partner to work out with will also mean having more accountability, meaning you’re less likely to pull out of a session. After all, you won’t want to let your partner down.

3.Get some new workout clothes

Who doesn’t love new gym wear? Spending money on something new can be a great motivating factor, and the added benefit of buying new gym clothes is that you’ll feel great in them and want to wear them. It’s also a good excuse to treat yourself to some new training gear!

4.Have a clear plan of action

While goal setting gives you a big target to aim for, it’s your action plan that will break it down into more manageable chunks and keep you going when your motivation is low. For example, let’s say your goal is to lose 5kg in time for Christmas. On its own this can seem like a daunting prospect, but if your action plan is to spend 20 minutes on the treadmill every time you go to the gym followed by a 20-minute strength session, it’s a far easier target to work towards, which will make you less likely to quit.

5.Mix up your routine

Doing the same thing over and over can become boring and demotivating. If you find yourself dreading your next workout or feeling like you can’t be bothered, then try something different. For example, instead of sitting on the exercise bike listening to your music, you could try a spin class instead. Or, instead of running on the treadmill, look at joining a HIIT class. Introducing new routines and exercises will help you to stay motivated and avoid boredom when it comes to your workout.

6.Reward yourself

It doesn’t have to be anything extravagant, and it certainly doesn’t need to be anything unhealthy – step away from the cake! But giving yourself a little reward from time to time will help you focus. It could be something as simple as a new item of clothing you’ve had your eye on or a treat for the house. Whatever it is, having little rewards built into your routine can be a great motivator when you need a boost.

Looking for motivation throughout the coming months? The Fitness Room Honeybourne offers a warm welcome and a friendly, safe gym environment. Join us for personal training, classes, meal plans, nutrition advice and support to help you on your fitness journey.

Call us on 07540 060269 for a free consultation and to find out more about how we can keep you on the right track.