How to keep the weight off over winter

Research by the Dieticians Association of Australia has shown almost half of Australian adults gain weight in winter. So what’s the secret to maintaining your clothing size over the cooler months? 

Curbing the cravings for hearty comfort food and continuing our summer exercise regime is easier said than done, but the team at Base Gym Active have provided their top tips for keeping what we’re eating and how we’re moving in check over winter.  

Manager Becky’s top tips 

• Contrary to what we think our bodies are saying, our food intake requirements don’t actually increase over winter. Reaching for extra calories in winter is usually out of boredom rather than any actual biological reasons – so it’s more important than ever to remain active throughout the day and around meal times.   
• The best way to avoid cravings for high salt, fatty take-away meals is to keep the fridge stocked with plenty of fresh fruit and vegies, lean meat, dairy and meals that are already prepared.

Alisha’s top tips

• Keep exercising regularly. To keep motivated in the cooler months, join a gym, group fitness class, or sign up with a personal trainer to keep you accountable. You’re more likely to turn up if others are expecting you to.
• Eat more vegies! The cooler months call for delicious vegetable-based soups.
• Have a healthy warm breakfast like oats with a small amount of fruit, or an omelette.
• Protect your immune system. Be sure to get into the natural goodness of olive leaf extract, Echinacea, Vitamin C, and a good quality multi-strain probiotic before you feel the cold or flu coming on.

Megan’s top tips 

• Move. Make sure you hit the gym 3-4 days per week and find a training buddy.
• Boost your intake of Vitamin C (chilli, citrus fruits and dark leafy greens), minerals and essential fatty acids (flaxseeds, nuts, eggs, salmon and soybeans).
• Keep hydrated: drink 2-3L water daily.
• Stay warm!

Sam’s top tips   

• For fast winter fat burning, try a high intensity cardio workout and bodyweight workout – great for beating that winter bulge.
• Only 30 minutes a day will help you keep off those winter kilos.

Justin’s top tips 

• It’s only cold if you’re standing still!
• Three months from now you will thank yourself – summer bodies are made in the winter.

Ryan’s top tips 

• Boxing and high intensity training keeps the metabolism going and is challenging for the body – but fun!