No matter how you swing it, training in winter requires a degree of motivation. Sometimes it’s a lot, sometimes a little, either way, it’s more than likely you’ll face an inner dialogue before you decide you’re going to exercise. That being said, there are a few smart tricks you can do to help things along.

  • Do something you like

Unless you’re training for a specific event, you have the freedom to do whatever you like to stay fit. Like to swim? Hit the pool. Enjoy racket sports? Maybe badminton is for you. It doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you do something that motivates you, you’ll be more likely to commit to keeping fit over the winter.

  • Do something at home

Sometimes conditions just aren’t right to go outside. There might be ice, snow, or thick fog, making training dangerous and not desirable. If this is the case then you could do a home workout. Training from the comfort of your living room is more motivating than heading outside. This might not be possible, but if it is, through a treadmill or turbo trainer (cyclists will know what I mean), then I’d fully advise taking advantage of it.

  • Grab a training buddy

Staying motivated to work out in the winter is much easier when you have a friend by your side. By scheduling a run, some gym time, or fitness classes throughout the week, you’ll keep each other accountable. No one wants to be a no-show when their buddy is depending on them.

  • Buy some new workout gear

Combat the cold with some new gear, from some sneakers and warm spandex to a high-tech running watch. You’re not going to sit around staring at your new swag — you’re going to want to break it in.

  • Use the cold to your advantage

Snowy, freezing cold, blizzardy weather shouldn’t get you down — you should actually use it to your advantage. Ditch your routine once in a while and try a fun winter-inspired workout instead. Everything from skiing and ice skating to sledding (and running back up that big hill!) will get your heart rate up. Plus, getting to do something fun and sometimes childlike is a great way to relieve stress and make sure your workout willpower doesn’t die off throughout the season.