When the temperatures drop, and there is less sunlight, your first instinct isn’t likely to be to get out and exercise. In fact, you might be more inclined to snuggle under a blanket and binge on a TV series and some cookies instead. However, if you tend to suffer from the “winter blues,” or have been diagnosed with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), hitting the fitness center or even just going outside for a walk can be uplifting. 

Why Exercising in Winter Is Challenging

For many people, the winter months can make fitting in regular workouts a challenge. During the holidays, busy schedules eat up the time that could be spent at the fitness center. Post-holidays, the shorter days and cold weather tend to drive us indoors.

When the roads are icy, and the wind is biting, you might be worried about falling or frostbite, and opt to stay indoors instead. But even when temperatures are mild and there’s plenty of time, the winter blues themselves can make it hard to get moving.

Because it’s a form of depression, fatigue and sleep disturbances are among the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder. Combine that with other common symptoms, including a lack of motivation, loss of interest in hobbies, and general withdrawal, and a sweat session at the fitness center falls to the end of the priority list.

Why Exercise Should Be a Priority 

Although exercise is not a cure for SAD or any other mood disorder, there is plenty of evidence that working out can help alleviate the symptoms, keeping the winter doldrums away.  The National Institutes for Health reports that even short workouts can make a measurable difference in depression symptoms.

Physical activity releases feel-good brain chemicals called endorphins that naturally create feelings of well-being. Scientists also suggest that spending time working out can help take your mind off anxieties or negative feelings, at least temporarily, helping you feel better. 

Heading to the fitness center increases social interaction, which may boost your mood. It can also help reduce the symptoms of other ailments, like arthritis, which can be affected by cold weather.

When you aren’t as uncomfortable, your mood improves. Exercise also gives your immune system a boost, so you can better fight off winter illnesses and stay healthy and engaged all season. 

Stay fit and beat the winter blues by joining LifeSport Athletic Club - Libertyville in Illinois. This fitness center offers a variety of workout options, from weights and cardio equipment to classes in tennis, yoga, and more. They also have a team of skilled personal trainers to help members reach their health and fitness goals. For more details about memberships and classes, visit them online or call (847) 362-5553 to register today.