The 44 Group’s Post

Our bodies are amazing at adapting to change, both physically and mentally. While this is great for survival, it can make it harder to reach our fitness goals. When we do the same workout over and over, our body gets used to it. This means we stop seeing improvements in our health, strength, weight loss, or even how we feel mentally. If we don't change our workout routine, we might hit a plateau where we stop making progress. We might even go backwards if we get bored or tired of doing the same thing. That's why fitness experts suggest changing our workouts every 6-12 weeks. Changing our workouts with the seasons can be a great idea. It's good for our overall health and well-being. Long ago, before modern technology, people naturally followed different rhythms - daily rhythms, seasonal changes, and even animal migrations for food. The more we can match these natural rhythms, the better our bodies work. We sleep better, feel calmer, and our hormones stay balanced. It's always better to spend some time outdoors, no matter what season it is. This is true even if you live in a city - get out and explore your urban environment! Being outside helps our bodies know when it's day or night, gives us vitamin D from sunlight, and lets us breathe fresh air and connect with nature. Each season has its own characteristics that can affect how, what, and when we exercise. It's a good idea to plan your workouts for the upcoming season before it arrives. This way, you can make the most of what each season has to offer for your fitness routine. The Best Time to Work Out in Winter: • Outdoor workouts: During peak sunlight hours, typically between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, to maximise vitamin D absorption and maintain healthy levels. This timing also helps combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD) by exposing you to natural light. • Indoor workouts: Early morning, between 6:00-10:00 AM. Starting your day with exercise can boost your metabolism, improve mental clarity, and set a positive tone for the rest of your day. It's also a great way to warm up your body during the colder months. The Best Types of Workouts: • Outdoor: Hill walking and hiking to challenge your cardiovascular system and build leg strength. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and interval training are excellent for maintaining fitness in shorter durations, perfect for colder weather. Consider also trying winter-specific activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing for a full-body workout. • Indoor: Heated group classes such as hot yoga or Bikram yoga to stay warm and improve flexibility. Cycling classes or spinning to maintain cardiovascular fitness without braving the cold. Treadmill activities including walking, running, and sprints, which allow you to control your environment while still getting an effective workout. Strength training with weights or resistance bands is also beneficial for maintaining muscle mass during the winter months.

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