18 January 2005

Holy s***, it’s 13°F out!!

Ah, yes. The inevitable decline in numbers when the temperatures drop. You’re at home, comfortable and warm on your couch, and then you remember that John’s step class is tonight. To hell with him, you say, as you pour yourself another cognac and put another log on the fire.

OK, so maybe it’s beer and TV. The point is that this weather does a number on one’s motivation to work out. If anyone understands this, it’s me. When it gets cold, my appetite soars, and my energy levels in the gym plummet. Plus, who the heck cares about working out? With all those winter clothes on, no one can tell we’re packing on the pounds.

Despite all these excuses, though, it’s important to force yourself into the gym even when you don’t want to. Seasonal Affective Disorder is very real. Shorter days and less outdoor activity have a strong impact on mood. Force yourself to get outside. And don’t blow off my step class!