Summary of Podcast Episode #32: Beat the Winter Blues: Neven Antic's Training Tips for Consistency and Motivation

Neven Antic • June 4, 2025

Summary of Podcast Episode #32: Beat the Winter Blues: Neven Antic's Training Tips for Consistency and Motivation

As winter sets in, it’s all too easy to press pause on your training, hit snooze, and trade workouts for warm blankets and comfort food. But staying active during the colder months isn’t just about physical fitness — it’s crucial for your mental health, immune system, and long-term progress.


In Episode #32 of the D8 Training Podcast, Ann-Marie Antic chats with D8 Training head coach and founder Neven Antic, who shares powerful insights and practical strategies to help you train consistently, eat smarter, and thrive through winter.

Why Winter Training Matters

When motivation drops (as it often does in winter), discipline becomes your strongest asset. Neven explains that relying on motivation alone is unreliable, especially when it’s cold, dark, and your energy feels low. But a well-established routine will carry you through.


Don’t see winter as a time to ease off — see it as a chance to build momentum in your strength training program while others slow down.


Warm-Ups Matter More Than Ever

Your body doesn’t move the same in winter. Cold weather tightens muscles and stiffens joints, increasing your risk of injury — especially for those over 40. Neven recommends:



  • Extending your warm-up time
  • Gradually building set intensity (don’t go heavy from the start)
  • Listening to your body and adjusting as needed


This extra care up front pays off in better performance and fewer setbacks.


Nutrition Tips for Women Over 40

Pre-workout fuel is essential. Neven highlights the importance of consuming at least 15g of protein before training, particularly for women over 40. This helps stabilise energy, protect muscle mass, and improve recovery.


Post-workout nutrition is just as critical — aim for 40g of protein plus quality carbs within 60 minutes of training. Despite old myths, fasted workouts are often less effective, especially as we age.


“Your body needs fuel to perform and recover. Don’t skip the basics — they matter more the older we get.” – Neven Antic


Beat the Winter Blues with Movement

Winter can take a toll on mood and motivation. But strength training is one of the most powerful tools to combat seasonal blues. Moving your body boosts your mood, builds energy, and gives you a sense of control — even on the toughest days.



It doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to happen.


Key Takeaways from the Episode

  • Discipline > Motivation – habits keep you going when willpower fades
  • Warming up is non-negotiable in winter
  • Fuel your body right, especially for women over 40
  • Movement creates energy – the hardest part is starting
  • Consistency through winter sets you up for a strong spring

Got a Question for Neven?

If you have a question from this episode or want to chat with Neven directly:
👉 
Submit your question here or send us a DM on Instagram or Facebook.


We love hearing from our community!


Want to Train with Us?

To learn more about D8 Training and find out if we’re the gym near me, head to here.


Looking for something more tailored?


If you'd like Neven as your personal or private trainer, find out more here  — spaces are limited but worth it.


Listen to Episode #32

Don't let winter hold you back. This is your time to build strength, resilience, and momentum through resistance training 

that lasts all year.


Click here to listen to the full episode and if it helped you, share it with a friend.

More Posts

By Neven Antic • October 8, 2026
Never liked exercise? See the 4-step approach D8 uses to help Adelaide adults build strength without needing to love the gym first.
By Neven Antic • October 1, 2026
See the 10 questions Adelaide parents should ask before enrolling their child in a gym, and how D8's JuniorGym Academy answers each one.
By Neven Antic • September 24, 2026
Compare strength training to Pilates, yoga and bootcamps for Adelaide adults 35+, and see why strength training is the foundation of lasting results.
By Neven Antic • September 17, 2026
Help your non-sporty teen gain confidence with strength training at JuniorGym Academy. Book a session today!
By Neven Antic • September 10, 2026
Learn to balance your multisport teen's training load to prevent burnout. Book an Athlete Assessment for tailored strength training today!
By Neven Antic • September 3, 2026
Learn how couples can train together successfully at D8. Book a Strong Start fit/gameplan call for personalized training plans!
More Posts

Need Help With Your Fitness or Health?

If you are stuck with your fitness or health and want to change that, then reach out to see if our 21Day KickStarter would be a good fit for you. We have helped 100's of clients improve their health and fitness and would love to find out more about your unique needs.

21-Day Kickstarter