“I’m not going to win any of the five events,” Shaklee Pure Performance Team member Dennis Bowshersaid, “but I’ll place in the top ten of all of them. That consistency should put me in medal contention.”
Those five events make up the modern pentathlon: pistol shooting, fencing, swimming, horse riding, and running. While this 2012 Olympic athlete doesn’t claim any of the events as his strength, he knows that his strength as a competitor is turning in consistently good performances in the true spirit of an “all around” athlete.
Training to perform at a world-class level in five events is a full-time endeavor, so he can’t let the change in seasons reduce his workout time. Dennis knows many of us face the challenges of reduced daylight and temperatures, so he offers these five suggestions for maintaining fitness in fall and winter.
1. Remember that shorter days don’t mandate shorter workouts: “Really, fall and winter are perfect for even longer workouts—long, easy runs or swims, full workouts without some of the distractions of summer,” Dennis said. “I work on my endurance and strength in the winter so I can hit the sprints and skill events when the weather improves.”
2. Keep your workouts comfortable and enjoyable: “If it’s cold outside, you’ve got two easy choices: work out inside or dress warmly enough to keep it enjoyable. You’ll eventually adjust to the weather, so don’t risk dropping a workout just because it’s cold.” Dennis frequently hits the treadmill, and most gyms offer a variety of workout options.
3. Don’t let the “dark ages” isolate you: “Let’s face it,” Dennis explained, “working out is generally easier with friends. Your workout partners may not be as available in the winter months, but finding a way to get together can really boost the motivation and funon dreary days.”
4. Advanced planning will help you stay on track: “Whether you’re trying to link up with friends, finding clear roads to run on, or avoiding a winter storm, your planning can keep you active when other people are hunkering down,” Dennis said. “And don’t forget to plan for a workout if you’re traveling!”
5. Remember that fitness is forever and at all times: “An active lifestyle isn’t just a summer lifestyle,” Dennis said. “I build my base of fitness in the offseason so that I don’t need to diet or fitness-surge when the competitive season rolls around in March. I keep my weight within a few pounds all year long. Of course, with five events to practice I don’t have to worry much about weight gain!”
Dennis usually knocks down a Shaklee Physique® drink after a workout. “I like to get good nutrients back into my system right away, and it helps with my energy and muscle tone,” Dennis said. “After all, we’ve all got another workout coming up, right?”
Do you have any workout tips for the fall or winter? Comment below and inspire our readers.
Shaklee athletes are either Distributors or dedicated users who have received compensation for their partnership and/or complimentary Shaklee products.
Orginally posted on Shaklee Health Wise Blog.
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