Why is it that at the first sign of autumn, we’re happy to hang up our running shoes and ditch the bikini for a baggy jumper? At the drop of a wilting salad, we’re telling ourselves that it’s time to stay home, eat, drink and be merry while vegging in front of a roasting fire. I can certainly see the attraction, but why leave the inevitable to the New Year?
According to Lloyd Wells, a fitness and nutrition guru working with West Sussex based Wickwoods Country Club; “Keeping a fitness routine going over the winter months can seem like hard work. Going out to the gym when it’s cold, wet and dark takes commitment. But think how good it will feel when post Christmas friends and family are bemoaning the extra pounds they’ve put on over the festive holiday (the truth is, it’s been a slow build since autumn set in).”
So while the gyms are empty and the restaurants are full, take full advantage and get ahead of the game. Here are 5 good reasons why you should start your exercise routine now and not leave it to the fate of a New Years Resolution.
- Whatever you do for your health is cumulative
Having a break from exercise during the autumn with the intention of turning over a new leaf next year just makes your road to fitness a whole lot harder. Just as you see the positive cumulative effects of regular exercise on the body, you can’t ignore the negative cumulative effects of no exercise and poor eating habits. The fact is you’re more likely to eat a healthy diet while you are exercising regularly.
- Every day is the perfect day to start a new regime when it comes to your health
Every single day is an opportunity to make positive changes in terms of your health. Take control of your health and fitness today. The good news is there’s absolutely no need to wait. By the New Year you’ll be feeling great.
- Christmas holiday eating
If you’re waiting for the New Year to start your exercise regime, then Christmas will more than likely end up being a time to binge. With the thought of getting down to the gym in the New Year, it’s very easy to forgive yourself for overeating during the Christmas holidays. If by Christmas, you’re already in full flow with your exercise routine, you’ll be much more aware of your health and find it easier and more natural to keep treats to a minimum.
- Going cold turkey with exercise could end up in injuries
Giving up exercise over the autumn with the intention of a New Years resolution to get back on track could put you on the back foot. Going cold turkey with exercise and diet can lead to stress, burn out and injuries. Restarting your exercise regime in the New Year with vigour is admirable, but overzealous workouts and overambitious training goals commonly lead to injuries.
It’s no surprise that many of us at this point throw in the towel. Smart training at the right pace will help you to prevent injuries. Speak to your personal trainer or staff at the gym to make sure you reduce the risk of picking up an injury.
- End the year on a high
Make yourself proud. Think how great you will feel at the end of the year if your exercise routine is well underway, bedded in and you’re starting to reap the rewards. Make it a Christmas to remember for all the right reasons.
And to help motivate you here are 3 top tips to help get you in shape before the New Year gym rush.
- Join your local gym now
Why wait for the New Year rush. Gyms will be packed out in January. Ask if there are any pre-Christmas deals on membership schemes. If you have a friend who is already a member, find out whether there are any referral schemes to give you discount, or an incentive to join.
- Invest in some home gym equipment
You don’t have to do it all at the gym. Complement your new routine at the gym with some training at home. You don’t have to buy a top of the range treadmill. Having a mat, some hand weights and a resistance exercise band are enough to get you started. Ask your local gym to help you with a routine you can do at home, or there are plenty of on-line resources.
- Walking
Running isn’t for everyone. In fact, pounding the pavements isn’t really that good for anyone. While running gives us a great cardio workout, it’s not particularly good for our joints. Walking is free and one of the easiest ways to get more active. Make it a goal every weekend to go for at least one long walk, and whenever you are nipping to the local shop, leave the car at home. It’s a great way to blow off the cobwebs and get some head space too.
Good luck! Remember not to overdo it at the beginning to avoid injury, and any niggles be sure to consult a professional at your gym for advice. If you do suffer any injury, getting treatment early with a physiotherapist will speed up your recovery time.
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