Embrace the chill! New research reveals surprising winter health trend

New research from Peloton, the leader in connected fitness, reveals that Australians are a resilient nation of fitness lovers who are challenging the misconception that winter is the least motivating season to workout. 

In fact, the Motivation that Moves the Nation report* shows that Australians don’t slack on their workout routines during the cooler months, with 84% surprisingly inclined to exercise in winter, and half of the nation (50%) always or often feeling motivated to brave the cold weather. 

Sport and exercise is ingrained in Australian culture, and in the true Aussie spirit, people haven’t let the dreary weather stop them from getting their adrenaline hit. Despite popular opinion that people are more active in the warmer months as Australians traditionally spend more time outdoors, Peloton’s report showed that almost half of the country (47%) admit to prioritising socialising over exercising in summer - and rightfully so!

The study showed that Australians would rather spend their time under the summer sun at the beach (48%), having a drink with friends (42%), going out to dinner (39%) or lying in the sun (31%), than exercise. Peloton is helping Australians of all abilities and interests to harness their energy and make the most of the cooler seasons.

Motivation to exercise means a boost of motivation in your everyday life

The research reports that persisting with winter exercise sparks motivation elsewhere. Two thirds of Aussies (65%) see exercise as a catalyst for motivation in other areas of their lives because it makes them feel positive (79%), energised (68%) and helps to improve their mood (55%).

Libby Trickett, international sporting icon and Peloton Australian Member, can testify to the motivational benefits of a winter workout with Peloton and the far reaching benefits of exercise. “Like everyday Australians, I too can relate to how the slightest inconvenience to your schedule can impact your motivation to exercise and stay fit during winter. I’ve been using the Peloton Bike+ and App since October last year, and as a busy mum and lover of fitness, it’s the right option for me as it gives me the ability to structure my workouts when and how I want. 

“With Peloton, I find myself working out while the kids do their homework, or after I put them to bed, as these otherwise traditionally unconventional hours to exercise are now made possible with Peloton.” 

At-home workouts are here to stay

The convenience of WFH has made its way into the workout world with the rise of “WoFH” - working out from home. Getting out of bed during a frosty morning has been made easier in recent years with Australians embracing at-home workouts - almost half (45%) of the nation opt to WoFH to supplement their routine on the days they struggle to find the motivation to workout.

Digital fitness providers like Peloton recognise this change in consumer habits and are providing Aussies with the flexibility to access best in class content on-the-go. Since launching in Australia over a year ago, Peloton has seen a surge in Member growth with Aussies wanting the convenience of live and on-demand classes to add to their hybrid fitness routines and help motivate them, rain, hail or shine. 

Amanda Gilmore, Country Manager – Peloton Australia, said “The rise of at-home workouts has kept Australians motivated and accountable, not only during the pandemic, but throughout the winter months and beyond. Peloton supports Australians with their lifestyle and fitness goals by providing the three C’s; dynamic content, a diverse community and personalised convenience to support their individual fitness needs. 

“In the last year, Peloton’s Australian Members have completed 1.95 million workouts, with cycling leading in popularity and accounting for over half (1.02 million) of classes taken. Other fitness modalities such as yoga, pilates, strength training, outdoor running and boxing followed closely behind (925,000), demonstrating the value that Australians receive when using our connected fitness experience.”

We’re sticklers for consistency and community

Routine and motivating mantras help get Aussies out of bed on a cold morning. Whether it’s “hard work pays off” (30%) or “hard work takes time” (22%), most people will resonate with a fitness motto. Amongst those who prioritise their fitness daily, more than half (57%) will go to great lengths to fit a workout into their daily routine,  even if it’s a quick 10-minute session at home.

Interestingly, Australians are more driven by self-improvement than impressing others, with only 5% admitting to being motivated to exercise by seeing their gym crush or meeting a potential partner while working out.Contrary to this, 14% of Aussies report that ​​being part of a community and making new friends motivates them to exercise. In Peloton’s first year in market, Australian Members gave 1.21 million virtual high fives of encouragement to other members, demonstrating the uplifting power of the community in helping individuals achieve their fitness goals. 

Gilmore added: “Community is at the heart of the Peloton fitness experience and we recognise this is a key motivator for Australians, bringing them together for key celebratory moments like our one year anniversary Aussie Vibes classes. As a Motivation company, we have created a platform to encourage Members, new and existing, to unlock their potential, motivating each other to achieve their individual fitness goals”. 

Marking its one year anniversary in Australia, Peloton invites Australians to experience the ultimate cardio and strength training, working out at-home, at the beach or on the road. Immerse yourself in Peloton’s range of fitness modalities through its premium suite of products; the Peloton Bike, the Peloton Bike+, Peloton Guide and the Peloton App.