The Benefits of working out in winter!8 Nov

At Brio Leisure, we love fitness. However, we know it can be hard to stay motivated in winter.

The chilly, dark days can make the idea of cozying up in front of the television incredibly appealing! However, you might be surprised to learn that winter is a great time to start or keep up your exercise routine!

Still skeptical? Here are a few reasons why winter workouts are helpful.They can help fight the winter blues!

You may have heard of Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. The extended, gloomy nights and freezing temperatures can induce feelings of sadness and mild depression.

It’s not enjoyable as it can make the simple act of getting out of bed in the morning challenging. It can be hard to do anything other than sit in front of the TV. Regular exercise can help lessen the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Exercise can improve your mood all year round. However, it is especially helpful in winter. It raises feel-good hormones and helps keep the winter blues away. Your immune system becomes more vigilant and active in combating external threats and their unpleasant effects.

Research shows that a good workout can be four times more effective than antidepressants for improving depression symptoms. Getting outside in the fresh air during cold weather can boost your mood. It can also help increase vitamin D levels in your skin.

Classes are especially good for fighting the winter blues. They offer a great social experience along with clear health benefits.

It’ll Keep You Warm!

Your immune system becomes more active and ready to fight harmful invaders. Better equipped to handle outside threats and their unpleasant effects. A good workout will boost your blood circulation. This means you will feel warm for a while after you finish exercising.

If you want to save on your gas bill, go to the gym and exercise. You will feel warmer when you get home, and you won’t need to turn on the heating! You can also engage the entire family in a calorie-burning activity with a game of badminton or squash!

Excellent Cardio Exercise

Chilly weather compels your body to exert more effort during workouts, and this equally impacts your cardiovascular system. When you exercise in cold weather, your heart pumps harder to move blood. This energising workout keeps your heart healthy. Cardiovascular disease is a big health threat in this country. Anything that strengthens your heart is a wise choice

Fight the Flu!

Regular exercise boosts your immune system. If you’re tired of getting sick every year, working out can help. It may prevent you from getting ill! Chilly conditions make your body exert more effort while exercising, which also impacts your cardiovascular health.

How To Boost Your Immune System

Eat Healthy: Include fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Focus on Vitamin C (citrus), zinc (nuts, seeds), and probiotics (yogurt, kefir).

Exercise Moderately: Regular activity improves circulation and immunity.

Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours nightly for optimal recovery.

Manage Stress: Practice meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water; herbal teas like ginger or turmeric can help.

Avoid Harmful Habits: Limit alcohol, avoid smoking, and reduce processed foods.

Take Key Supplements (if needed): Vitamin D tablets or elderberry—consult a doctor first.

Foods To Boost Your Immune System

1. Fruits & Veggies: Citrus (Vitamin C), berries (antioxidants), spinach, broccoli, red bell peppers.
2. Proteins: Chicken, fish (omega-3s, Vitamin D), eggs.
3. Nuts & Seeds: Almonds, sunflower seeds (Vitamin E), pumpkin seeds (zinc).
4. Fermented Foods: Yogurt, kefir, kimchi (probiotics).
5. Herbs & Spices: Garlic, turmeric, ginger.
6. Healthy Fats: Olive oil, avocados.
7. Green Tea: Packed with antioxidants.
8. Vitamin D Foods: salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardine, egg yolks, porobello mushrooms.

Eat these for a stronger immune system!

Here at Brio Leisure, we offer over 450 weekly fitness classes and 7 centres across the North West with that many classes and gyms you’ve got endless possibilities, check out our fitness timetables here and book your next session with Brio.

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