I live in the Northeast, and it’s been a long winter, and there’s not much sign that it will be over soon. As much as I enjoy the outdoors, I’ve found it more and more difficult to get out for fresh air this winter. Years ago, when my children were small, I’d hop out of bed at 5:50 a.m., get dressed, and head outside for a 3-4 mile run three mornings a week. I was so good that I’d know exactly what outfit to put on for every 5 degree change in temperature (from 0-90!) all year. In the winter, I’d come home with icicles on my eyelashes.
Flash forward to now. I just don’t have the energy (desire?) to do that anymore. I get to the gym twice each week for weight training, and then everything else is hit or miss lately. While I do love walking and jogging outdoors, for whatever reason, going out into the 5 degree weather no longer appeals to me (unless I’m skiing, which I can’t do every week). 
I have always advised people to do what they love. If you don’t enjoy the exercise routine you begin, it’s unlikely that you’ll stick with it. Since weekly exercise is important (and it’s especially important to not slack off as you age), finding something that works for you is key.
For me, I need to change it up. And I really don’t like group classes, and prefer to be outside. I also will sign up for the occasional 5K, charity run (jog), or event (although I won’t do another mud run). My latest goals: A morning yoga workout at home on Mondays and Fridays (since I work from a home office, this saves time for me) and a walk on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Do what works for you. Help others stay motivated! What do you do when you get into an exercise rut?
