As the winter season fades away and spring approaches, it's time to start transitioning your workouts to be more spring-friendly. After a long winter of hibernation and indoor training, it's important to slowly and safely ease into outdoor workouts, taking into consideration the changing weather and terrain.
Here are some tips to help you transition your winter workouts to be spring-friendly:
Start with a warm-up: Before diving into your workout, make sure to spend a few minutes warming up your muscles. This will help prevent injury and prepare your body for the workout ahead. A good warm-up can include light cardio exercises such as jumping jacks, jogging or walking.
Gradually increase your intensity: During winter, you may have been training indoors, which often means lower-intensity workouts. As the weather improves and you move outdoors, gradually increase the intensity of your workouts. Start with shorter workouts and lower intensities and gradually increase them as your body gets used to the new conditions.
Change your gear: Spring weather can be unpredictable, so it's important to have the right gear to accommodate the changing weather conditions. Start with lighter clothing layers that you can easily remove or add as needed. Invest in quality gear such as water-resistant running shoes, moisture-wicking clothing, and a good pair of sunglasses. Be careful of the moist ground beneath you and don't forget to apply sunscreen!
Take advantage of the outdoors: Spring is the perfect time to take your workouts outside and enjoy the fresh air. Incorporate outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, or running into your workout routine. This will not only improve your physical health but also your mental well-being.
Stay hydrated: As the temperature rises, it's important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout to avoid dehydration. Bring a water bottle with you during your workouts to ensure you have easy access to water.
Listen to your body: As with any workout routine, it's important to listen to your body and adjust your workout accordingly. If you experience any pain or discomfort, take a break, and don't push yourself too hard. Overtraining can lead to injury and setbacks in your fitness journey.
With these tips, you'll be able to safely and effectively transition your workouts to be more spring-friendly and enjoy the beautiful outdoors.
Written by Alyssa Rolnick, Co-Founder of Zax’s Original Products, Registered Dietitian and Mother of 3 active kids.