Finding the ‘carrot’ of your midwinter exercise

Cold, short days make it hard to implement active routines, and also reduce the willpower and motivation that help us stick to them.

Using social interaction as a form of motivation is the key to maintaining healthy wellbeing this winter, according to research. The catch-ups you look forward to, where you share the stories and anecdotes from the week, and the ones you need to get off your chest, become motivation. Make these times of meaningful connection twofold by adding in physical activity.

Recent findings, which emerged from the World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, further solidify the benefits of regular exercise. Through consistent, moderate intensity activity, immune cells which fight infection and combat inflammation are stimulated, boosting the overall immune system. The result is stronger defence mechanisms, so that when struck with respiratory infections such as influenza or pneumonia, the body puts up a better fight, and the time in overcoming the illness is significantly lowered.

In winter, when respiratory infections and illness are omnipresent, the need for such healthy immune function is critical, Exercise New Zealand’s (ENZ) Richard Beddie says.
ENZ is highlighting the advantages of regular exercise and social connections, in a bid to boost the immune systems and fend off seasonal illness in Kiwis nationwide. Research shows mammoth benefits to immunity when blending exercise with interaction, such as group fitness classes. ENZ found that over 85% of exercise providers offer group classes, and so understand the popularity of group-based activity to boost physical health while cultivating community.

A social network filled with varied connections boosts the quality of life, satisfaction, and sleep, and reduces cortisol and mental decline. Studies show that it is difficult to have one without the other. No matter your physical health, to stay well and happy, it is important to keep up social connections.

Switch that hour-long phone or video call with a friend on weeknights to an hour of exercise, merging the two. Pencil-in neighbourhood walks, hikes up the Port Hills, or cycle journeys. If the weather poses a problem, head to swimming sessions at local pools, yoga or pilates classes, or get your group together and alternate weekly workouts at home, and rotate between homes. Focus on balance, with moderate intensity and consistency, as overdoing it with high intensity can set you in the opposite direction.