WINTER IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAIN!!
QUICK REMINDER: THIS SATURDAY, ADULT WING CHUN GRADING – KIDS CLASS ON EARLY AT 9AM.
Need some seniors for the grading as we have a level 6 grading solo and will require some sparring partners. If your not grading or sparring, come down and show your support anyway!! Lunch afterwards at the Cauliflower Hotel.
Now……
WING CHUN IN WINTER!
Yes, the colder months are now upon us, it can be so easy to just hibernate through it, but winter is the best time to train!!
(and we’re not exactly known for taking the easy path here are we…?)
- Cold burns fat quicker. Your body’s self-regulation of heat means that when it’s cold your body has to work harder to maintain a healthy core temperature. So, getting out of bed or up from behind the heater to get in to train can increase your metabolic rate up to 10% – and that’s before you’ve even started your workout.
- By being exposed to various ambient temperatures, your body learns to get warmer faster.
- Studies have linked increased exercise to better moods – as I’m sure we’re all well aware – but this is most definitely important in the colder, darker months when people can experience varying effects of what’s been referred to as SAD (seasonal affective disorder). The rush of endorphins can be proof enough for most of us that training is good for us during this colder time.
- Training itself makes you warm!! Raising your body temperature during a workout has a soothing calming effect on your body like a hot bath or lying in front of a heater.
- Regular exercise has been shown to increase your immune system. This boost only lasts for a few hours so exercise needs to be regular for long term effects.
- AVOID WINTER GAIN! Keep your winter weight in check so you don’t have to scramble in spring to look good for the beach. The average person puts on 4kg during winter. Now, I know we’re not your average people, but it is ever so tempting to reach for the comfort food on a particularly freezing day. Exercise can help keep those desires at bay by keeping you warmer, keeping you focused on your goals, on track and burning those extra calories if you do happen to cave in to a quick pleasure food fix.
So, if you’re hibernating STOP NOW!! and get your ass on the mat!!
If you’re going to be smart about it, plan well:
- Get in early to warm up before class.
- Bring something warm to wear after class – hoodie, beanie, scarf, gloves – and PUT THEM ON!! Even if you still feel warm from training.
- If you really feel the cold, wear compression gear and/or a rashie under your gi, it can really help.
- Correct nutrition – you’re burning more calories in the cold, so if you have a fair distance to travel, take a healthy snack for your trip home.
See you on the mat!!