More than a few of us have the mindset that as the weather warms, we needn’t spend as much time in the gym and we often begin to stray from our regular workout routines. Outdoor activities are plentiful as the weather warms, and after spending most of the winter indoors, they become very appealing and enjoyable. Who doesn’t love summer?! But don’t be fooled in to thinking you are getting all that you need and let your hard work fall by the wayside. Don’t allow that inner winter warrior to become a summer slacker!Here are some researched reasons to keep our weekly routines strong during the warmer months:
-
Walking and gardening for 30 minutes each, consumes on average 319 calories, where cardio on the elliptical and weight training for 30 minutes each burns 503 calories on average. Burn baby burn! -
Aerobic capacity reductions take as little as 1-2 weeks to occur. Therefore, if you reduce the intensity of your aerobic workouts, you can regress very quickly.
-
It takes as long as or longer than 66 days to form or resume a good habit/routine and little or no time to break it! Stay as faithful as possible so you do not need to begin again when the colder weather returns.
-
Consistency, adherence and enjoyment rather than mode or intensity is shown to be best for weight control.
-
Higher levels of health and fitness can be achieved by sticking with a more structured regime.
-
If you were to suddenly stop weight training completely, it is possible to lose approximately 68% of
your isometric strength in as little as 12 weeks!
These are but a few of the many reasons why consistency in your routine is so important. Make a conscious decision to be committed to your routine all year round – you will be glad you did!
So remember, year round…….more than fitness, it’s a lifestyle!
Contributed by: Tara Daye, canfitpro PTS & FIS
Sources:
Harvard Medical School
MacEwen University Sport & Wellness
US National Library of Medicine
National Institute of Health
Exercise Physiology: Basis of Human Movement in Disease & Health