The nights are closing in and the average temperature is starting to hit single figures on a regular basis. Autumn is without doubt in full fledge, and we’re edging ever closer to winter…

For some, this can trigger the urge to go into hibernation.

Staying at home and eating a takeaway in front of the TV suddenly starts to become much more appealing than that 10k run in the rain, followed by a green salad…

This can quickly lead to stagnation, and the dreaded winter bulge. But it doesn’t have to be that way. In this post, we’ll share with you a few simple ideas to help you maintain your fitness levels throughout the winter months.

1. Get a morning routine

A morning routine can be a great way to increase your daily movement quota. Whether it’s ten minutes or half hour, get up a little earlier and set some time aside to do some gentle exercise. That might be a light yoga session, or a morning stroll – whatever interests you. Follow this up with a big green smoothie, and you’ll be set for the day.

2. Set mini exercise challenges

Getting in regular bouts of movement throughout the day can be a great supplement to your normal training routine.

Whenever possible, take the stairs, or better still run up them. Take a break from work every hour or so to perform ten air squats. Do whatever you can to get more low-level movement into your normal routine. It will help keep you warm too!

3. Commit to a goal

There’s nothing like a big goal to get you motivated to stay on track during winter. It gives you something to work towards and be excited for.

You could sign up for a half marathon, an obstacle race, or even commit to losing a certain amount of weight. Pick something, make a plan, and give it your all.

4. Get a buddy

Having a gym buddy, runner partner or even teammates can be a great way to stay accountable for your actions. You don’t want to be that person who lets the others down, so you’re more likely to show up than if you were going solo.

5. Prioritise your food prep

Last but not least – food prep. It’s not exciting or sexy, but it’s oh so important.

Do yourself a favour and set aside some time on the weekend to plan and prep your food for the week. Batch cook a healthy meal, and store it in the fridge or freezer.

When your willpower is under strain when you come back from work, at least you have a healthy option on standby that you can simply heat up.