Page 32 - North Haven Magazine Issue 20 Autumn 2021

COLDER WEATHER by Dawn Cianci

Winter is close at hand. The change of your immunity during cold and flu season.
seasons is rapidly approaching. But, your
workout doesn't need to be left out in the Not sure where to start? Let's dive in.
cold. With a plan and a few simple ideas,
you can transition your workout from Winter means cold, which means Layer
Summer to Winter. And from Winter to a Up - Walking and running outside in the
new you. cool air is refreshing. Add some layers, and
you're good to go. Also, if you're an early
Ahhhhh...Summer! morning jogger or an evening walker, don't
forget to wear reflectors, so you are visible.
Being outside in the fresh air, running,
jumping, playing, our workouts seem ef- Take It Inside – Treadmills, stationary bikes,
fortless when we can enjoy them in the rowers, and more! They are good pieces of Staying on track with our nutrition helps
warmth of an early jog or evening stroll. equipment to keep your motor running, ei- us have the energy to get those workouts
ther in the gym or at home. in and our bodies running in full force. So
We all love outside activities. And it seems reaching for a palmful size of heart-healthy
easier to get those workouts in and stay in nuts instead of chips or a Christmas cookie
shape in the dog days of summer. But, the is an excellent switch to make.
season is winding down. The sun is ris-
ing later, setting earlier, and the winds are If you start to feel sluggish or slow, look at
changing. your nutrition, especially around the holi-

Now is the time to switch things up and days. Cookies, drinks, and even those pep-
permint mocha lattes can be a reason why
plan for a fit-filled year-end. you're feeling that way.

I've taught hundreds of fitness classes with Focus and Mindset-Stay Motivated and
over 15 years of experience. So take it from Consistent, be accountable, and have a
me; making a plan is essential for success. workout buddy. Yes, that sounds like a lot,
No matter the season, it's necessary to Although most of us welcome the change of but you're worth it. When it gets dark out
switch up your workouts. Our bodies adapt seasons, let's remember the "mental" transi- at 5 p.m., and the weather is just too darn
or plateau to the same workouts. tion we are going through. Anyone who has cold, we tend to shut down. Remember
experienced the winter blahs; knows what I your goals and why you started.
am talking about.
Think Tech-With the convenience of Zoom;
Going from summer to winter workouts re- you can work out in the warmth and pri-
quires a focused mindset. vacy of your own home. I started Barefoot
Fitness last October after teaching group
It is important to stay positive, motivated, fitness in my kitchen for six months when
and consistent for both body and mind. Covid began.
Having accountability and/or a workout
buddy is an excellent way to keep your Taking classes online is an excellent alter-
workouts and nutrition on track. native to going to the gym, especially when
it is snowing and cold outside. Virtual
At Barefoot Fitness, we have a popular classes are a great way to work out, and you
weekly newsletter, "Wellness Wednesday," do not have to worry about driving in the
where we serve up healthy tips, recipes, and white conditions.
The change of seasons is a great time to motivation.
add something new. If you ran all summer, I've been asked by so many of my students,
maybe add some strength training this fall. I am continuously taking fitness and nutri- "what workouts should I do for the Winter:
Switching up your workouts will benefit tion courses to better learn about our bod- not to lose ground?"
mental health. Keeping your mind occu- ies and total health to serve my class better.
pied with different activities is cleansing As a result, I strongly suggest you do your Strength training! It sounds weighty, but
and essential. research before starting any new program. a simple approach can provide so many
Keeping up with our workouts during the benefits. Make a plan to regularly strength
fall and especially winter months is vital for With the fun yet hectic holiday season, nu- train. Set a goal. You can accelerate your
our overall health. Exercise gives an energy trition may slack, which can cause havoc on progress by adding a little more weight to
boost, is a great stress reliever, helps main- our bodies and weigh on our minds. each exercise.
tain a healthy weight, and movement boosts

32 North Haven Magazine - Autumn Issue 2021