Winter is coming and as Jon Snow keeps reminding us, we all better prepare. But contrary to popular belief, it’s not just physical strength we should be focusing on, because mental toughness is what’s really going to kick you into gear when your alarm goes off at 5am on a dark and frosty winter morning.
Despite any reservations you may have about winter, it really is the best time to get stuck into training, so in an effort to help you from giving in to the sweet siren call of your snuggly doona, we’ve compiled a list of tips that will help keep your motivation high and alive.
- Embrace the weather
If you’ve experienced a harsh Aussie summer, then you understand that running in 38 degree heat is not ideal – suddenly winter isn’t looking to bad! Not only is it easier to exercise when the temperature drops, but you’re far less likely to suffer from heat exhaustion and throw in the towel. Added bonus: the cold air feels great against your skin once you get warm.
- Practical Clothing
We’ve all been there before and jumped the gun on the layering. Rugging up in a singlet, tee, jumper and scarf seems logical at first, but as your run progresses you start to get warmer and warmer and you are left trying to find places to hang layers of clothes whilst still running. Utilize clothes that use high tech fabrics, such as Brooks Infinity Running LS Tee, and always dress knowing that you WILL warm up.
- Grab a friend
You don’t have to go it alone, finding a friend to join is one of the easiest ways to hold yourself accountable because, a) cancelling on a friend last minute is not cool and, b) you’ll kill two-birds with one stone by socialising and exercising at the same time!
- Reward Yourself
Treat yourself! Don’t be afraid to reward yourself at the end of a run. It’s a great achievement, so allow yourself to have that delicious coffee or nourish yourself with a big warm breakfast.
Have you got any tips or tricks to keep motivated in winter? Let us know in the comments below or share your winter morning snaps with us on Facebook and Instagram by using #BestTimeBNE