Winter Fit

Keeping fit in the winter is not the easiest thing to do. It’s cold, dark and difficult to get motivated. The winter season is also a financially draining time with Christmas and the holiday period in full flow, and spending cash on the gym or personal trainer isn’t really a priority.

So what little things can you do to keep yourself healthy at this time of year? London-based personal trainer to the celebs, Toby Giles, says that there are lots of simple things.

1. Water, water and more water!
Even in winter it is essential to drink lots of water. Aim to drink 1.5 – 2 litres a day. This helps maintain a healthy body weight by increasing metabolism and regulating appetite.

 2. Take your own lunch and snacks into work
You are more likely to buy unhealthy, fatty foods when you are hungry or in a rush at lunch time. Planning ahead will reduce your risk of caving in!

 3. Changing your daily regime ever so slightly
Variation will help you on your way to a healthier lifestyle. If you live within reasonable walking distance from work, try to walk as often as you can, or get off the bus or tube two stops early and walk the rest of the way. This extra activity can make a noticeable difference.

 4. Ask a friend to get involved and exercise together
This not only makes it fun, but if you both make a note of your targets before you start you can have a friendly competition to see who hits their targets first.

5. Eat little and often
Eat every 2-3 hours to keep your metabolism burning all day long.

Toby Giles runs personal training sessions throughout London, which start at £35.

Image by Mairi McCann courtesy of Flickr