I’m a psychologist – here’s the real reasons you don’t want to exercise

As it gets colder, most of us just want to sit on the sofa with a cup of tea.

If it’s wet and windy outside, the last thing you want to do is brave the elements to exercise.

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Now a psychologist has revealed why that is, as new research has revealed that a fifth of adults see their exercise levels drop by as much as 37 percent in the winter months.

Andreas Michaelides, head of psychology at the noom said that for many, winter can play havoc with our intentions, causing us to exercise less or change our Feeding Habits.

“Whether it’s dark, cold, stress or tiredness, many external factors can affect our decision-making at this time of year.

“Data indicates that ‘hibernation mode’ kicks in for nearly one in five of us and we often lose motivation to maintain our routines compared to the summer months due to barriers like weather and vacations.

“Recognizing how these internal and external factors affect you and your choices is just the first step to making truly informed decisions, allowing you to maintain a motivated mindset all year long.

“It’s also important to plan accordingly when you know you may experience situations that prevent you from reaching your health goals.

“Adapt your routine by going for a walk on a treadmill instead of running outside or swapping your summer salad for a hot vegetable soup,” she said.

The research, commissioned by the psychology-backed behavior change program, found that adults exercise an average of four times a week during the summer, but this decreases during the colder months, with 31 percent less active than at any other time of the year.

The survey interviewed 2,000 adults and found that nearly three-quarters of them attributed the drop in activity to cooler temperatures, with 57 percent put off by dark mornings and evenings.

Others admitted that they find it more difficult to get out of bed during the winter (49%), are concerned about safety when exercising alone in the dark (27%), and have less energy (24%).

The spring and fall months were the most popular time of year to get fit, with 49 percent wishing they could maintain the healthy mindset they adopt in the warmer months through the cold and dark. winters.

And more than a third live a healthier lifestyle generally in the summer compared to the winter.

The survey, conducted by OnePoll, also found that walking It is the most common form of exercise undertaken by the British throughout the year.

This was followed by running, cycling and bodyweight exercises, such as push-ups and pull-ups.

And 23 percent enjoy exercising ‘a lot’.

But winter is a season for indulgence with 40 percent enjoying more food in December than any other time of the year as temptations peak with Christmas parties and celebrations centered around food.

While 28 percent admitted that they eat chocolate more frequently at this time of year.

More than one in five are also likely to order more food to go, with 28 percent consuming more packets of cookies during the winter.

Andreas added: “Fortunately, maintaining healthy habits during the winter does not mean banishing your favorite foods or following strenuous exercise routines, but incorporating small healthy habits here and there, which will lead to long-term sustainable change.”

How to stay motivated from summer through winter

Noom trainer Brooke Marchand revealed her top tips for staying on top of your fitness this winter.

Keep up the outdoor activities

Increasing your vitamin D intake is an effective way to manage low moods and energy levels affected by winter weather.

A great way to increase these levels is to get outside as much as possible during the day and enjoy natural sunlight; it only needs about 20-30 minutes.

However, if you have a hard time finding time to walk during the shorter days, you can also get vitamin D from foods like salmon, mushrooms, and milk (including soy milk).

explore new places

Make winter exercise interesting and exciting by exploring new locations, new formats and new people to exercise with.

Take time to investigate new trails or routes you haven’t been on before for a change of scenery during a run or hike.

Be encouraged to try new types of exercises, whether it’s yoga, running, or weight training to keep the practices interesting.

Listen to summer music, all year long

We tend to create playlists that are fun, upbeat, and with summery feelings to make us feel like summer, but not feel like winter.

Keep your feel-good music going year-round to ensure your motivation to get up and go holds up through all seasons of the year.

Follow established routines

Maintaining a regular routine throughout the year can be a very helpful way to maintain a positive mindset throughout the year.

Not only does it help you build lasting healthy habits, but it will have a particularly positive impact on your sleep.

Going to bed and waking up at the same time has been shown to improve sleep quality.

People who tend to have trouble with their mood in the winter months also have trouble sleeping and often have trouble getting up in the morning. The two are intrinsically linked.