Close your eyes and imagine the first rays of spring sun. Temperatures are rising, nature is starting to wake up, and we are gradually shedding layers of warm clothing. It would be idyllic, if not for the recurring annual panic attack that our body, after a long winter, is far from the shape we would love to show off in a swimsuit.
With a little discipline, however, you can master it this time. Maintaining your fitness during the winter season is not that complicated, especially when the range of indoor activities is truly wide. Moreover, if you have the right helpers, convincing yourself to train will be much easier.
Everything you need always at hand
Whether you are heading to the gym for a workout, to the swimming pool, or prefer team sports in a sports hall, you need a practical bag to store all your essentials. It usually has an adjustable strap, so you can easily sling it over your shoulder and adjust it so that it hinders you as little as possible. You can choose from many different designs to match your winter jacket or simply correspond with your favorite colors. A stylish choice is, for example, the Travelite Kick Off S Duffle bag, which is both practical and trendy.
A separate compartment for shoes is also a practical feature, offered for example by the popular Heys Puffer Duffel or Reisenthel Activity Bag. You can comfortably separate your shoes from your clothes without having to constantly use a plastic bag.
This also brings us to the basic equipment that you will need and should therefore pack into your sports bag – few sports are done barefoot or in the suit we arrived in from the office. You should definitely not forget the mentioned sports clothing (or swimwear) and comfortable sports shoes.
Comfort above all
Of course, some people may prefer a backpack over a sports bag. In that case, choose a sports-style backpack, where you will especially appreciate small details like side pockets for a water bottle or a rain cover, especially if you commute to your training location on foot or by bike. To carry everything you need, a backpack with a volume of about 20–30 l is more than enough, such as the Deuter Gogo, which you can also use for hiking in the summer.
Are you heading to the gym straight from work? We know that feeling very well! For such days, we have found the combination of an urban and leisure backpack like the Thule Vea to be effective, as it offers enough space for a laptop and other work tools, while also boasting a separate compartment for shoes or sportswear. The practical flap can also easily handle a yoga mat.
If you are a fan of minimalism, have a gym right next to your house, or do sports that don't require much spare clothing and equipment, give a drawstring bag a chance. It is light and compact, and it still dominates current fashion trends, so you don't have to worry about not being trendy enough.
Hydrate regularly
We mean non-alcoholic refreshment, of course. Although we don't feel as thirsty in winter as we do in the summer months, hydration is still very important. Moreover, the demands for fluid intake increase during sports. To avoid producing unnecessary waste, get a high-quality bottle, which has many other benefits besides its eco-friendliness. They are very durable, health-safe, and easy to clean. We have compared several bestsellers for you in a separate article.
A practical accessory that you will appreciate in any weather can also be a reliable thermos. It will keep your drink at the desired temperature, whether you crave an icy refreshment or, conversely, something to warm you up.
Hygiene should not be underestimated
If you don't want to earn an unflattering nickname among your fellow exercisers or a bad reputation as someone who bothers everyone around with their body odor, you should definitely not forget to pack a toiletry bag into your sports bag or backpack. It should contain deodorant, shower gel and shampoo, a comb, or body lotion, and for ladies, their favorite makeup. Therefore, choose a case that can hold all the essentials. Many of them also have other practical features, such as an integrated mirror or the possibility of hanging, as is the case with the Reisenthel ToiletBag, offered in many design variations.
If the shared showers don't look very inviting, shower shoes might also come in handy. Another essential item is a towel, or better yet two – one for drying your showered body, the other for wiping away sweat or for more hygienic use of exercise machines. When choosing the material, opt for a microfiber towel, which is more compact and quick-drying.
Other essentials
Of course, there are many other small items that won't take up much space in your bag but can make your workout or commute to the sports center much easier. One of them is foldable eco-bags, which you will use especially if you are planning to go shopping on the way or need to store anything separately. They don't take up much space and can always come in handy.
If you are a music lover and listening to it helps you get your blood pumping, don't forget your headphones for your mobile or player. However, choose ones that really fit well in your ear. Nothing is perhaps more annoying than headphones falling out with every movement.
To replenish the necessary nutrients after training, also prepare a small snack. You can store it in a practical snack box or bag, which will also keep the food at the desired temperature for a little longer.
If you really want to stay fit and in shape, consistency is important. To maintain fitness, it is recommended to train at least an hour three times a week. However, so that regular activity doesn't start to bore you after a while, combine it with outdoor movement. Winter sports such as downhill or cross-country skiing, ice skating, or simple sledding with children will be a great addition to your training plan.
How do you keep in shape during the winter? Share your tips with us in the comments.
Source of the introductory photo: pexels.com
