Blogger Talks Winter Workout Woes

I admit, though physical activity has always been a regular part of my life, winter has always made me a bit lazier. However, I now know the general desire to be less active as cold weather hits is not necessarily something to feel guilty about.

Gerhard Heldmaier, a professor at the University of Marbur in Germany and also chairman of the IHS(International Hibernation Society), discovered two genes in 2000 that may actually prepare our bodies for hibernation during this time. Winter changes in animals include conservation of energy by which reserves such as body fat are broken down at a much slower rate, since for them, cold temperatures mean less food availability. The two human genes discovered target fat burning versus carboydrate use, and may explain why cold weather makes the couch more appealing than the treadmill. Fortunately for us, lower temperatures do not necessarily mean less food, but in fact appear to contribute to more food being around the house, especially since we spend more time indoors. 

Now that we can all feel less guilty about our predilections that come with the changing of seasons, it is still as important as ever to keep physical activity as a regular part of our day. Of course, with the arrival of the new year, gyms are abound with men and women alike, full of energy, ready to satisfy those new years resolutions. A new year appears to push this country into the "out with the old, in with the new" mentality and getting rid of fat and calories can be more than just a physical satisfaction. As weeks pass, some are able to maintain this excitement, but I have seen the January gym infux become an outflux as energy wanes and excuses pile up. I have definitely fallen victim to this trend, but over time I have figured out what works for me, and at least it can be an option for you.

When I was a freshman in college, my roomate and dear friend asked me if I wanted to run a half marathon with her. Obviously I thought she was crazy, but then I figured, I guess I'll be crazy too and join her. So here I am, 10 half-marathon medals later, vouching for the power of setting a goal. I realize that such a goal may not be ideal or even desirable for some, and yes, running can be terrible for knees already worn and torn by effects of aging. My point is that setting goals can be a great motivator for physical activity. Websites like Active.com(http://www.active.com/) provide a wealth of information about any type of physical activity that is tailored to your location. Sign up for a race(biking, swimming, running, any kind is out there!) short or long, or find a hiking trail and vow to finish it in time so you can catch the beautiful sunset at the end. Find what works for you and stick with it. Goals for physical activity work for me and have continued to work for me because of how great I feel when I reach them. They may not work for you, but give it a whirl, you might even surprise yourself!