Change in Seasons - Change your Workout

Change.

Let’s face it: When it comes to getting in shape, that’s what it all comes down to. Changing how you eat, changing how much you move, and, yes, even changing your mindset. Especially changing your mindset. You cannot expect to experience change without making change.

Yet, when it comes to being successful in your exercise program, the mistake many people make is actually changing too much. They try to make too many changes all at once or make changes that are far too big. Oftentimes people even try to do both at the same time, which is next to impossible to sustain, even short-term.

The great news is that the majority of those who do find long-term success with their fitness programs start slowly. They make small changes, often just one behavior at a time. They start taking the stairs instead of the elevator at work. They stop skipping breakfast, starting their day instead with a healthy meal. They get up fifteen minutes earlier and get in a cardio session on their TreadClimber or their BowFlex MAX. These changes, while seemingly small, lead to big changes over time.

There is no better time to begin to make these small yet meaningful changes than right now, with the change in seasons. Remember that the definition of insanity applies to exercise - You cannot do the same thing over and over and expect to see different results. Both our bodies and our minds need variation.

So take the change in weather as an opportunity to mix it up, to try new things. This can mean purchasing a new piece of home exercise equipment, taking a new class at the gym or trying a new outdoor activity. Maybe you start playing indoor tennis, outdoor paddle tennis, or finally hire a personal trainer to help with your workout consistency through the tougher, colder months. I have always wanted to try both cross-country skiing and snow shoeing, and I think this is the winter that I will finally buy some new equipment, get out there and do it.

People often ask how frequently they should change around their fitness programs - One simple yet effective rule of thumb is to change with the seasons. It makes sense, it’s fun, and you can do it for the rest of your life.