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 Ann-Marie Antic September 8, 2025
When people talk about their health and fitness goals, they often say things like: ⚖️ “I want to lose 10 kilos.” 🧘🏻 “I want to be less stressed.” 🏃🏾‍♀️ “I want to run a sub 30-minute 5K.” These are outcome-based goals —they focus on the result. That’s fine for casual conversation… but not so great for actually getting there. Why? Because we don’t have full control over outcomes. You might have a crystal-clear vision of your goal and plenty of motivation, but then: Work gets hectic Family stress takes priority Sleep quality drops An injury slows you down Suddenly, your outcome slips away—and it feels like failure, even though many of those factors were out of your control. So, what can you control?
By Ann-Marie Antic September 1, 2025
Summary of Podcast Episode #38 The No-Nonsense Guide to Health: 5 Simple Habits That Actually Stick with Ann-Marie Antic
By Ann-Marie Antic August 25, 2025
Father’s Day is a time to celebrate the dads, grandads, and father figures who show up for their families every single day. At D8 Training , we know that being a great dad isn’t just about providing — it’s about having the energy, health, and strength to be present in every moment.
By Ann-Marie Antic August 18, 2025
Summary of Podcast Episode #37 Transform Your Mind, Transform Your Life: Sue Bromley on Rewiring Your Reality with Dr Joe Dispenza’s Methods
By Ann-Marie Antic August 11, 2025
Looking for a “gym near me” that actually helps you feel stronger, move better, and enjoy the process? Here’s why adults choose us. At D8 Training , we’re not just another gym. Our small-group sessions give you the best of both worlds the personal support of a private trainer, with the energy of training alongside others. Here are five common reasons adults walk through our doors… and why they stay.
By Ann-Marie Antic August 4, 2025
Summary of Podcast Episode #36 The Truth About Strength Training for Women: Brooke Scerri on Muscle, Mindset & Real Results
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