Moving outside (even during winter)!

If you're like me and love to move outdoors, this article is for you! Spring, summer and fall are my favorite seasons for running several times a week, hiking, kayaking, etc. In short, doing outdoor activities! When winter arrives, I tend to stay at home more often... I no longer run by fear of falling on ice or being too cold, and my outdoor activities become very limited.

This article will help me maintain my pleasure of moving outside, even in winter! During this time of confinement, where our social activities are excessively restricted, I think it's essential to get some fresh air every now and then to maintain good mental health. For my part, the short walks that I take every week make me feel so much better!

5 tips to "boost" your motivation

1. Equip yourself well

Definitely the most important tip. Not being well equipped to practice a winter sport can literally ruin your experience. Being cold not only hurts but it also really doesn't make you want to continue your activity. I suggest you buy outdoor clothing in specialized stores where employees will be able to help you make the right choices. I also have to think about equipping myself better to make my experiences more enjoyable!

2. Good weather

Suppose you decide to go cross-country skiing on a -30°C day, without any sun and freezing winds. In that case, your experience may not be very pleasant. Choose a day when the temperature is milder, and the sun is shining. Your activity will be much more positive this way, and you will want to start again!

3. Be with a partner

Some people like being alone. This is actually the case when I run. For others, the motivation and pleasure are much greater when they are with someone! That is my case for all other outdoor activities. It's so lovely to enjoy beautiful landscapes and share fascinating discussions with someone you like!

4. Bring snacks and/or hot beverages

This advice is valid for all activities. Being hungry can quickly put you in a bad mood, and it can really ruin an activity. So I suggest you should always bring a least one snack or more (soft bars, protein smoothie, energy balls, mixed nuts, etc.). For a winter activity, getting a hot beverage, such as tea, coffee or hot chocolate, in an insulated bottle is an excellent idea. It allows a warm and comforting little break!

5. Find an activity you like

Nothing is worse than forcing yourself to do something you don't like. Moving should be fun! I have put together a little list of winter activities that can inspire you. If you haven't tried them already, I strongly suggest you explore them and see which ones you like!

• Ice climbing
• Snowshoeing
• Winter sea kayaking
• Ice skating
• Cross-country skiing
• Winter Via Ferrata
• Snowkite
• Alpine ski or snowboarding
• Winter fat bike
• Running

Writing this article gave me the motivation to keep moving outdoors this winter. By applying these tips and exploring different activities, I really think winter will be comfier and more enjoyable!

By Katia Bricka
Writer at RAW Nutritional