As the clocks go back, the nights grow darker and the days shorter. The shift in your schedule can play havoc with your workout regime. Throw in hectic work schedules and Christmas around the corner, it's no wonder we're missing out on a decent night's kip. So we've outlined a few ways to maintain that workout as we prepare to 'fall back'...
Don't Head For The Sofa
Whilst heading straight to the sofa after a hard day's graft sounds like the perfect way to end the day, chances are, if you get settled, you're likely to want to stay there. Head to the gym straight after work and make your workout a part of your day. It's a great way to break up the monotony of working from home and will help you to establish a workout routine. Keep a gym bag in the car to ensure you have everything to hand for as soon as your working day is done.
Find New Motivation
The dark can be a real drag, and leads us to prefer a cosy night on the sofa than a sweat sesh in the gym. Grab a buddy and hit the gym together for added motivation, and a routine you'll both commit to.
Or shake up your humdrum workout routine with a new fitness class. Pumping tunes, motivational instructors and plenty of fun! Choose from over 100 classes a week including dance-inspired Zumba, Les Mills Sh'Bam plus the latest experiences from Les Mills.
If you're not ready to hit the gym, stay home and try an on demand fitness class via the Village Gym app.
Tire Yourself Out
A good night’s rest is vital for your bodyclock to smoothly transition to the new weekday schedule. To help the process, hit the gym or take a run in the evening. You'll be more tired and likely to get a deeper sleep, preparing you for the day ahead.
Run With The Sun
If you start to feel the effects of the time shift on those early morning runs, wait until the sun comes up. When light hits the optic nerve, it tells your brain to stop producing melatonin (the hormone that prompts sleep). Exposing your body to natural daylight will help you feel more awake and get more from your workout.
Rise Early
If you love nothing more than curling up on a winter evening, switch your workout schedule to a morning session. Working out in the morning will jumpstart your body for the day ahead, plus you'll find that the gym may be quieter then, than after work.
The adrenaline that comes from a morning workout switches the brain on, making you feel more active and alert for the day ahead. A perfect time for early birds or those with a Village Gym close to home, meaning you can workout, shower and get be home at your desk to start your day.
Need a little help getting started? Speak to the team at your Village Gym about the tools we can provide to give your workout a boost.
