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SMA Dojo
Monday, 13 December 2010
Keeping Motivated During the Cold Months
Topic: Trainers Log

Hi Readers,

 So today I saw a post asking trainers how they motivate their clients to stay active during the colder days of training and thought perhaps I would write an entry on my personal tips for keeping moving this winter.

First of all choose your weather wisely, if it's -30 perhaps trying an outdoor run is not in the cards. I find the best days for outdoor exercise are around -1 to -10 anything else is just a little to cold for me. Watch out for wind, the forcast may say -10 degrees but it's really -20 with the windchill.

Second, dress for success. Always cover your hands and your ears while exercising in the winter, they are some of the first places to get hit by frostbite. If you find yourself getting overheated try wearing a headband instead of a full hat. Also, make sure you wear removable layers. It may be cold when you start but if you're cross country skiing you may find yourself swealtering before to long. Don't forget your footwear! Winter means ice, and ice means slips. Nothing will slow you down faster than an injury from falling, if you like to run outdoors make sure you outfit your sneaks with some rubber cleats. They are available at sport specialty stores, and I have seen them at drug stores aswell.

Third, act like a kid! Like to multitask? How does blasting mega loads of calories while creating lasting memories with your kids sound? Running through deep snow in heavy boots is an excellent way to burn fat, have a snowball fight! Or try making a snowman or fort, lugging all that heavy snow will work your entire body out and you'll get a lovely happy glow from acting so silly.

Finally, have a treat when you're done! Hot chocolate is delicious and can be made to suit the health conscious. Here's a quick and easy healthy recipe.

Healthy Hot Chocolate Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups milk – low-fat, skim, soy, or rice milk
  • 2 heaping tablespoons 70 % dark chocolate cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoon sweetener – Organic cane sugar, granulated sugar, agave syrup (agave nectar), molasses or sugar substitute

Directions:

  1. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming (but not boiling).
  2. Add cocoa powder and sweetener.
  3. Whisk the cocoa powder and sweetener until well-blended.
  4. Pour into favorite mugs or cups.
  5. Enjoy.

Makes 2 servings.

-Courtesy of Suit101.com


Winter is your friend, and trust me you'll feel better for having made the effort, there are cross country skiing groups and snowshoe clubs. You can even take fido out and play a game or two. Whatever you do keep moving, you'll feel good for it I promise.

Cheers to Winter Cheer,

-Michelle


Posted by SMA Karate at 7:16 PM MNT
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