Last Updated on April 25, 2021 by Karen
This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #SpecialKGoodness #CollectiveBias
Cold weather is upon us and like me you’re probably all bundled up and hiding under layers of clothes. For many people, that translates into more time spent indoors and less time being active. Also, between the high calorie meals and tempting comfort foods, winter weight gain can inevitable if you’re not paying attention. I’m sharing my best tips that can help you enjoy the season and beat winter weight gain at the same time!
Plan your meals ahead
When it’s pitch black and cold out at 5 o’clock, I’m more likely to go home directly after work than head to the grocery store and buy fresh ingredients for cooking. Which is why I always like to plan a week’s worth of meals ahead, shop, and prep on the weekend prior. That way, I’ll have a good idea of what I’m going to eat that week. And since most of the cooking is done already, I’ll have time to go to the gym after work, then return home for a healthy dinner instead of resorting to Chinese takeout and pizza.
Keep a workout schedule
And better yet, stick in on your fridge so it reminds you to exercise every time you reach into the fridge for a soda or beer. When I was training for my half marathon last year, I followed a running program that would specify which days of the week I would run, rest, stretch, or cross train. I find it super helpful to have a schedule to follow, especially this time of the year when my biggest motivation is to curl up on the couch under warm blankets.
Lighten up comfort foods
Think of ways to reinvent seasonal favorites so you can be just as satisfied. Try replacing ground beef with turkey in chili and pasta with zucchini noodles.
Try something different
The cold weather can interrupt your workout routine, especially if you prefer outdoor exercises like hiking and cycling. I’ve to admit I enjoy running outdoors more than on the treadmill, so when it gets cold outside I’m prone to falling into hibemation mode. This is the time of the year to enjoy winter sports like snow shoeing, ice skating, and skiing! Or explore new indoor exercises, like joining an indoor cycling or Zumba class.
Eat regularly, and plan small meals and snacks throughout the day
There should never be a time when you’re at the point of starving. Eat small meals throughout the day to prevent feeling hungry. I find that when I’m starving, I will eat anything and everything in sight and make poor food choices. I always have healthy snacks with me wherever I go – sometimes an apple, a bag of mixed nuts, cheese or carrot sticks.
I even have a desk drawer at work dedicated to healthy snacks for keeping hunger at bay. When it comes to snacks, I’m loving Special K Nourish Bars as they are convenient for snacks or treats to help satisfy my sweet cravings.
Made with wholesome ingredients, these bars are chewy with a hint of crunch from the mix of nuts and boasts 8 grams of proteins in several delicious flavors. I found them near the aisle at Target and from now until Feb 18 there’s a Cartwheel offer for 10% off select products. Be sure to check out this link for more snack inspiration!
