As the temperature rises, you may find a shift in your mood and mindset. This isn’t just a figment of your imagination; research indicates that people’s emotions are indeed influenced by the weather. With the arrival of warmer weather after the winter chill, it’s common to experience a brighter outlook and increased motivation. You might notice a surge in energy propelling you towards exercise, revitalising your routine after the winter lull.

Studies have shown a seasonal variance in leisure-time physical activity and fitness levels, with summer typically seeing more movement. The change in seasons naturally alters the types and intensity of physical activities we engage in. During colder, ice-filled days, the mental hurdle to exercise can feel particularly daunting, despite the availability of indoor workout options.

Warmer weather not only sparks a desire to prioritise mental health and wellness but also instigates a psychological shift towards embracing exercise. Springtime serves as a catalyst for reinvigorating fitness goals, aided by the inviting climate that encourages outdoor movement. To kickstart your fitness journey, remember to ease into it, listen to your body, and re-establish your exercise routines.

Think about it. What forms of exercise do you favour in the winter months? I usually turn to slower weighted workouts, with less cardio, as the motivation to get outside is seemingly low. But then in the warmer months of spring and summer, I crave runs and long walks. Even the trend of “Hot Pilates” or “Hot Yoga” returns in these months, as the sun rises earlier in the day, thus motivating you to get out to your local pilates studio for the first morning class.

An important thing to remember, however, is to go slow. The first thing you might want to do now is to get out there and start your half-marathon training (or whatever you goals are), it is good to be aware that starting up intense exercise after a long period of not doing too much during the colder months, can bring risk of injury and a sense of pressure you put on yourself, with the potential of turning into exercise addiction. (Trust me, I’ve been there many times before).

When re-evaluating your exercise routine to capitalise on your improved mood, consider these risk factors. If you’ve been sedentary over the winter, it may take time to prepare your body for the beach and summer season. And this applies to other occasions – maybe you’ve just got back from holiday where you didn’t do much exercise. Take it slow and ease yourself back into it. Avoid the pitfalls of excessive cardio and high-rep workouts, which can strain your body. Instead, gently revitalise your metabolism with interval training on the treadmill and weightlifting with lower reps. Especially if you’ve been less active recently, gradually increase your activity level. Be honest about your current capabilities and avoid pushing yourself too hard.

Maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle may feel more effortless during the warmer seasons, but it’s crucial to prioritise year-round consistency. The key lies in embracing variety in your activities and tailoring them to suit the current season.

Aligning your fitness routine with the seasons not only sustains motivation but also prevents stagnation. Neglecting year-round fitness can have adverse long-term health consequences. Seize the opportunity presented by the changing season to recommit to your health and prepare your body for the summer months ahead.

What’s your favourite form of exercise? Let me know in the comments below.