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One great thing about the change of seasons is the ability to enjoy nature. During the wintertime, many of us spend our workouts in the comfort of a warm and sweaty gym. But after a while, this can get a little boring and repetitive. When the weather changes and the warmer temperatures arrive, it gives us the perfect time to shake off the winter doldrums and get outside for a workout adventure. Unfortunately, many of us tend to fall into workout slumps during the winter months. We get so used to doing the same workout over and over again, that it becomes a monotonous routine. But there are always ways to spice things up again, especially in the warmer weather. For example, if you enjoyed riding the exercise bike inside then consider ditching it and riding outside instead.
Actually, there isn’t any indoor exercise that you can’t do outside. It’s just a matter of taking advantage of nature. Nature offers so much more than fresh air; it’s also a chance to get out of the indoor box and enjoy the scenery. Being in nature can also help you unwind and change your overall perspective. Many of us find ourselves feeling uninspired and depressed during the wintertime. Studies have shown that this tendency is directly related to shorter days, lack of sunlight and being cooped up inside all of the time. As a result, some individual lose the motivation to keep working out. That’s why so many people gain weight over the winter. (Well, that and the fact that so many tasty holiday treats are readily available.)
It may take a little extra motivation to get out of a rut, but the reward is definitely worth it. Do yourself a favor and get a road bike that you can use outside. It’s such a different experience and it offers a much better workout. You will feel inspired with the wind in your face and the sun bearing down on you. Riding a stationary bike inside just doesn’t compare. Yes, it’s necessary when the roads and sidewalks are covered with snow and the temperatures are below freezing. But once the temperatures warm up and the snow melts, you don’t have any excuse not to ride outside instead.
The key to staying healthy and fit year after year is motivation. Without motivation, you’ll end up on the couch watching television instead. Motivation arises when you find an activity that you enjoy, because the simple thought of it excites you. This, in turn, motivates you to want to do it. That is why it’s important to switch up your workout routine and try new things. If you truly enjoy riding the stationary bike, why not giving riding outside a try? You might even find that you enjoy it even more. It’s the same with running on the treadmill. Runners are forced to use the treadmill during the winter. But as soon as the weather breaks, they happily hit the road. Giving riding your bike outside a try. Chances are you’ll leave the stationary bike exactly where it belongs — inside.
