Body & Fitness

6 exercises you can do when the weather’s bad

Can't head outside for your morning run today? Don't go back to sleep just yet.

Heading into the cooler months, it can be hard to find the motivation to jump out of bed and into your cold, restrictive sports gear (putting on a cold sports bra first thing in the morning is actually the worst).

But even during winter – especially during winter – it’s important to keep our bodies moving and pumping endorphins. Between rainy weekends, the lack of daylight hours and the frustration that comes with attempting to dry wet clothes sans dryer when it’s 12 degrees, you’re going to need that post-exercise mood boost.

And if the weather is crappy at your preferred exercise time? No sweat (well, not literally). Personal trainer and founder of DediKate, Kate Ivey, explains why you don’t need a gym – or to leave the house – for your winter workout.

“There are so many exercises and workouts you can do at home! They are time effective because you cut down travel time and by following a programme you don’t have to think, you just do!” says Kate.

Kate also recommends starting your workouts by the fire or heater to make getting out of bed and exercising in winter that little bit easier.

Check out Kate’s suggested indoor exercises below, you may also want to try one of her DediKate online programs.

Squats

Great for:

  • Burning fat

  • Improving circulation

  • Strengthening glutes

  • Strengthening quads

Press ups

Great for:

  • Improving arm strength

  • Toning arms

  • Improving cardiovascular health

Lunges

Great for:

  • Improving balance and coordination

  • Improving core strength

  • Strengthening glutes, quadriceps and hamstrings

Burpees

Great for:

  • Strengthening the whole body

  • Improving endurance

  • Losing weight

Ab Cycles or bicycle crunches

Great for:

  • Working most muscles of the abdomen

  • Contributing to a well-aligned spine

Bicep Curls

Great for:

  • Strengthening biceps

  • Toning arms

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