This year has brought many new experiences.
Lifting at home was a new-ish one to me.
Lifting outdoors (necessitated by low ceilings in the garage) came next.
Here are my tips.
Safety first
First, you have to get your values in order.
So, first rule: Getting a workout in is more important than being comfortable.
But there is another: Staying safe is more important than getting a workout in.
These priorities lead to compromises.
Safety beats comfort every time.
Dress warm
Youll need to layer up, of course.
If youre familiar with winter sports orif you run in the cold, you know all about this.
Beware the cords on hoodies, though.
I have definitely flipped them up into my face a few times.
Tuck them in, remove them,tie them behind the hood.
Fortunately, youre more likely to subtract than to add clothes as the workout goes on.
But definitely expect some surprises.
A hat with a giant pom-pom is far less distracting than I would have expected.
I wear it every cold day.
I lift in the driveway, so my garage is that cozy cave.
An electric blanket or heating pad might be a nice addition.
If I had a space heater, I might use one, safety permitting.
One day, youll have to put on a long-sleeved shirt.
(Ideally, Ill give it some time to warm up in the sun as well.)
It gets dark early these days.
Do you have a good source of light?
(Somebody once asked if my lifting videos were taken in the light of my cars headlights.
They arent, but that would have been a good idea.)
Finally, you have to be flexible.
If the weather is truly impossible, I can do certain exercises indoors and postpone the rest.
