During the cold winter months, many people tend to lose motivation to workout. With cold weather people want to stay warm and cozy in bed, which leads to laziness and lack of a workout routine. In fact, people can be affected with a disorder called seasonal affected disorder (SAD), which is a type of depression that is related to changes in seasons. Many people with SAD experience unwanted symptoms such as lack of energy, mood swings and not wanting to be active.

“While a person with winter doldrums may have difficulty waking up or getting out of bed at times, someone with seasonal affective disorder can’t get to work on time,” Michael Terman, PhD, director of the Winter Depression Program at New York Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Medical Center said.

Don’t worry, there are many ways to overcome the blues. Get outdoors and try some new activities. Trying some fun winter activities such as snow skiing, ice skating and snowboarding can benefit you. Don’t mope about the weather, use it as an advantage, even if it is a short walk or just shoveling.

It’s always good to change up a routine, whether it is a workout space, clothing or even playlist. If similar routines consist, try switching it up to help provide more motivation. Change can be scary especially when the same routine is kept for a long time, but change can spark a little positivity.

A huge motivation during the winter is finding a workout partner. It’s always a good idea to have one because motivation can come from either partner. Start with finding a gym and joining it together. Motivate each other to try new equipment and new workout routines.

Overcoming Winter blues can be a challenge but with some motivation and hard work anything can be achieved.