With the Near Year just around the corner, there is no time like the present to make that New Year's resolution to lose weight. Don't let cold winter weather stop you from implementing a weight loss workout plan and sticking to it.

The physicians and nutritionists at a weight loss center can develop an individualized weight loss plan for you that includes proper nutrition and exercise that will help you achieve a healthier lifestyle. Whether you get your exercise indoors or outdoors, seeking the advice of weight loss professionals to help you set realistic goals can lead to lasting success. Here are some tips to follow:

1. Add outdoor activities to your exercise regimen.

There are no excuses for not exercising during the wintertime, as there are safe and effective ways to get a workout even during the coldest and snowiest months of the year. But no matter what goals you set, it's important to maintain the weight loss you achieve.

Use winter as a reason to give new outdoor activities a try. Consider taking up a winter sport as your primary method of staying in shape when winter hits. Join a ski club or take the time to learn how to snowboard.

While both downhill skiing and cross-country skiing burn calories, downhill skiing helps improve flexibility and core strength. Cross-country skiing is an aerobic sport that also strengthens muscles and builds endurance.

When it comes to snowboarding, you'll burn more calories on steeper, rougher terrain; however, be sure your skills are up to par. You should also wear the proper protective gear such as a helmet and wrist and elbow guards in case you fall.

Ice hockey is another sport that raises your heart rate. Although you burn calories while playing, when you're off the ice, your body continues to burn calories.

Kids aren't the only people who can have fun playing outdoors in the snow. Ice skating, throwing snowballs, and building a snowman are all activities that burn calories. In fact, any activity that gets you moving burns calories, lifts your mood, and makes your heart stronger.

2. Walk, run, or jog for exercise.

If you walk, run, or jog to lose or maintain weight, you'll need to make some modifications to your workout routine during the winter months. Wear athletic shoes with deeper tread made for the snow. Pace yourself with slower and shorter strides to reduce the risk of slipping and falling.

Run in areas with good lighting so that you can see any ice on your path. While walking against the wind may burn more calories, if it's too much for you, consider walking or running in areas surrounded by tall trees or buildings that block some of those bone-chilling winter winds.

3. Prepare for an outdoor workout.

Plan for exercise no matter what the season. Choose an activity that focuses on using your own body weight to give you a heart-pumping, calorie-busting workout. If you prepare for exercise in the right way, losing weight may not seem like such a chore.

Keep in mind that what you eat counts too, especially if you feel hungry after a rigorous workout. A weight loss professional will tell you that dieting combined with fat-burning exercise can help you lose weight faster. The key is to increase your metabolism so that your body continues to burn calories for hours after you stop exercising.

Share