8 Reasons why winter is the best time to get physically active

Summer 2016 has officially gone (it never really turned up), and we are currently half way down the road to winter. The blend between day and night is increasingly unclear, with the clocks now meaning darkness is around for longer than we'd probably like it to be. Cold weather, rain and darkness probably don't spur you on to take on new challenges, and that's the same for all of us. But actually, winter may well be the best time to get physically active. Why? Here are 8 reasons…

1. There are less people about

Nobody likes being looked at by strangers, especially when you've got a red face and are gasping for air. It isn't the best look, but you know in the end it will all be worth it. For seasoned athletes, the glances probably mean nothing now, but for newcomers, the thoughts of others can be a real worry. Luckily, winter tends to mean more people stay inside, rather than go out and about. Especially when it's dark outside, even if that means it's only 5:30!

2. You won't get tired quickly

You will get tired; let's not get that lost in translation. But you won't get tired as quickly as you would in the summer months. The temperature drops significantly, meaning it is colder air you are taking in and without the sun beaming onto your face, your body temperature stays cooler.

3. It's scenic

In winter it is meant to snow, even if it doesn't much nowadays. The frost is meant to glisten off the trees and grass, with little robins out helping to provide an all-round cute experience…that's how it is in films anyway. In reality, it might just rain 24/7 for a few weeks. But when it doesn't, it makes for a very nice spectacle, which can brighten up what would be a mundane bike ride.

4. It's sporting season

Many sports take time off over the summer, letting players spend their time on a beach somewhere before getting back onto the pitch in July time. Although the likes of cricket are unplayable, football and rugby are back on the calendars. With a huge selection of teams in the area looking for new players, find one that is ideal for you, no matter your ability.

5. Christmas Offers

Going to the gym can be expensive. Buying sports clothing can leave a big hole in the wallet too. But long live the Christmas sales, which happen throughout December both online and on the high street. Specially made sports clothing can be significantly cheaper, providing an added incentive to get physically active. Gyms often have passes on special offers too, looking to take advantage of all those incoming New Year resolutions.

6. It's something to look forward to

This has already been touched on, but winter is a bleak time. For many, days may consist of going to work, going home and watching Emmerdale. For others, it might not even be that exciting. Taking part in sport or physical activity can act as not only a health positive, but also something to genuinely get excited for.

7. Mental health

Statistics show that during the winter months, more people are diagnosed with mental health conditions than in the other three seasons. With winter, there is even a disorder named Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression which is brought on in a seasonal pattern. With physical activity benefiting and stimulating the brain, winter exercise has far more benefits to mental health than you may think.

8. It can save you money.

Admittedly doing exercise in winter can be a bit chilly to start with. If it was acceptable or humanly possible to run in a big jumper, we probably all would. But though it might be cold to begin with, a decent amount of exercise is the perfect way to heat the body up. The positives of that are… well, it at least saves you a bit of money when it comes to turning the thermostat up. If you were to cycle to work aswell, just think of all those savings you'll make on petrol.