How to stay consistent with your exercise routine this winter

Let’s be honest, when it’s cold outside, the idea of working out can feel as appealing as diving into a frozen lake. Your bed is warm, the sofa’s calling your name, and the gym feels like it’s in Narnia. But before you give in to the winter slump and hibernate under a pile of blankets until spring, know this: winter might just be the perfect time to build rock-solid consistency in your fitness routine.

Here’s how to keep your body moving and your motivation high, even when it’s absolutely Baltic outside.

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Set Winter-Specific Goals

Swap “summer body” goals for winter wins. Think strength building, mental health boosts, or simply staying active three times a week. Having a clear, cold-weather goal gives your workouts a purpose that’s bigger than the bikini countdown.

Find a Cosy Workout Spot

If trekking to the gym feels like a mission to the South Pole, bring the sweat session home. Clear a corner in your living room, roll out a mat, and stream your favourite workout videos or join a virtual class. YouTube, fitness apps, or Instagram Lives are perfect for this. Bonus: you don’t even need to put on proper trousers.

Layer Up and Get Outside Anyway

There’s something oddly magical about crisp winter air. Invest in proper workout gear (thermal leggings and a good hoodie can work wonders) and head out for a jog or walk. Once you start moving, your body will warm up quickly, and those rosy cheeks are basically nature’s highlighter.

@athleisurefit When it comes to gear, i gravitate towards more niche brands. Below are some of my favorites along with some more classical brands Base: @rabbit running Layer 2: @Satisfy auralite long tee Shoes: @Saucony triumph 21 Headband: @Amazon Gloves: @smartwoolsocial Tights/bra: lndr #coldweather #nycrunning #winterrunning #runninggear #runningroutine #satisfyrunning #tracksmith ♬ luther - Kendrick Lamar & SZA

Schedule Your Workouts Like Hot Dates

Treat your workouts like important appointments or cheeky dates with yourself. Pop them into your diary, set reminders, and don’t ghost yourself. Even a quick 20-minute session counts. It’s consistency that matters, not perfection.

Keep It Fun and Fresh

Change things up so you don’t get bored. Try dance workouts one day, yoga the next, or even a little strength training with tins of beans if you haven’t got weights. The point is: move in a way that doesn’t feel like a chore. If you're enjoying yourself, you'll keep coming back.

Buddy Up

Whether it's a gym partner, a virtual workout mate, or just someone you text when you’ve done your session, accountability helps. You’re less likely to skip a workout if someone’s expecting you to show up (or brag about it after).

Reward Yourself

Give yourself something to look forward to. A hot bath, a favourite winter drink, or a new pair of leggings, small rewards can keep you motivated when your willpower’s wearing a woolly hat and refusing to leave the house.

Winter doesn’t have to be a write-off for your fitness goals. With the right mindset, a splash of creativity, and a pinch of discipline, you can stay on track, even when it’s dark at 5pm. Keep moving, keep warm, and remember: summer bodies are built in winter (or, you know, year-round—no pressure).

Now, go on, grab your trainers, queue up your playlist, and let’s show winter who’s boss.