We are stuck in the middle of the coldest month of the year. Yes, it's gloomy, dark, and frigid. But that shouldn't stop you from exercising.
The winter weather can seem like a great excuse to hibernate indoors on your warm couch and push your fitness routine to the sidelines. However, winter is actually an important season to keep up with your active lifestyle. The winter months can make it easier to gain a few pounds and can set you back for the rest of the year.
So, how can you look past the frigid temperatures and get yourself up and moving? All it takes is a little creativity! Here are 10 tips to help you keep active during the winter months:
Join a gym or health club. Indoor gyms are your best friend during the winter. Choose one that is located close to your home or office so that a drive in the winter weather won’t keep you from the gym.
Swim. Find an indoor swimming pool. Swimming boosts your physical strength and heart health. Plus, being active in the water is a comfortable way to ease into exercising again if you haven’t been active for a while.
Ice skating. Turn winter festivities into a workout! Skating is a great workout not only for your leg muscles, but also for your abs and core muscles as you try to keep your balance. Depending on how fast and how long you skate, this activity can also be a great cardio workout.
Walk at the mall. Many malls offer walking programs and access early in the morning to people in the community. Malls are a great alternative to getting in some steps if you find treadmills boring or don’t have access to a gym.
Try a fitness class. Fitness classes will not only help you get in shape but will help keep you motivated over the winter months. Try out one that you think sounds interesting or enjoyable to do.
Exercise at home. Buy some exercise equipment like a yoga mat or hand weights and make your own home gym. Try using YouTube or fitness apps to find exercise routines to follow along with and get yourself moving.
Take the stairs. You most likely have access to stairs whether it’s at your home, apartment building, or work. Stair climbing is an awesome fat-burning workout that will keep your heart rate up.
Play some indoor sports. The winter months are a great time to start playing some of your favorite indoor sports. Check for places in your community that offer indoor basketball, soccer, or volleyball courts.
Play some winter sports. Remember that skiing, snowboarding, and hockey can be just as healthy as they can be fun! Winter sports are also a great way to get in some physical activity while on a winter vacation.
Play outdoors with your kids. A great way to keep your blood pumping in the winter? Go outside and play with your kids! Pulling sleds, building snowmen, and chasing around your kids will keep you active and help you bond with your family.
Exercise is too good for your body to pass up. Think of the winter as a time to get more creative with your exercise routine. Staying on track throughout the winter months will lead you to feeling even better than you usually do in the spring and summer seasons.
How do you stay active during the winter season?