Getting started is the hardest part, they say.
But staying motivated throughout those chilly winter mornings or afternoons is even harder. And yet summer bodies are made in winter, as artist and media personality Unathi Nkayi often preaches.
She preaches this message every autumn.
“Guys please can we gossip quickly and please can we gossip about some of you guys. It's getting colder, it is June next week and you going to start all that talk," she said on Instagram a few winters ago.
"It's cold and I don’t want to get out of bed and all that stuff and then in September, which is three months away, you’ll ask me, Unathi how did you do it and I’m going to remind you that I did it in front you, here on the gram because sharing is caring.”
The singer has gone through her own very public weight loss journey after being fat-shamed and ridiculed.
She turned that negativity into positivity and now encourages women not to sabotage themselves in winter because spring is coming.
"Your excuses are valid and so are your body goals," she told her followers.
Read more | Looking to get fit in the New Year? Here are 7 celebs who might keep you motivated
She has again reminded her adoring fans that summer is coming – and not to skip leg day.
“Dark and cold early mornings and evenings make staying in bed a little longer or catching up on your favourite series as you get home, very tempting,” explains Clere For Men's Themba Ndlovu.
"However, exercising will have us not only looking good, but feeling good mentally too." He shares simple tricks to get you out the door and consistent in your winter training like Unathi.
1) Set specific goals
The first step is to set specific, measurable, and achievable goals. Instead of saying you want to ‘get fit,’ set a specific goal like ‘run a 5km in under 30 minutes’ or ‘do 10 pull-ups.’ This will help you track your progress and give you something specific to work towards.
2) Track your progress with a fitness app.
If you didn't log it and track it digitally, did ot even happen?
Read more | Why Unathi is everyone's perfect exercise accountability partner this winter
3) Find a workout buddy
Having a workout buddy can make a huge difference in your motivation and accountability. Find someone who shares your fitness goals and can help keep you on track. You can work out together, share progress updates, and motivate each other when things get tough.
4) Switch up your routine
Doing the same workout day in and day out can get boring and lead to a lack of motivation. Try mixing up your routine by adding new exercises, trying a spinning class, or doing a different form of exercise altogether. This can help keep things fresh and exciting.
5) Try a challenge
Setting a fitness challenge for yourself can be a great way to reinvigorate your fitness goals. Try something like a 30-day plank challenge, a 100-pushup challenge, or a 10,000-step challenge. This can help you stay motivated and give you a sense of accomplishment when you complete the challenge.
6) Get proper sleep
Sleep is crucial for maintaining good health and achieving fitness goals. Lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, decreased motivation, and poor performance during workouts. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to ensure your body has the rest it needs to function properly.
7) Reward yourself
Don't forget to reward yourself for your hard work. Set up a reward system for yourself when you hit certain fitness milestones. Treat yourself to a delicious meal, new workout gear, or a night out with friends.
This can help you stay motivated and give you something to look forward to.
