How to Stay Active During the Long Winter Months

It is difficult to be motivated to exercise when it is cold and gloomy outside. Even driving to a fitness center is more energizing when the sun is shining and the air is warm. But long and cold winters are no excuse for gaining weight and getting out of shape. There are winter sport sand exercises that can motivate you to stay active during the winter. Read on for steps you can take to be energized for indoor exercises when the weather is cold.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Search for sports and activities that can only be enjoyed during the wintertime. For example, you can go skiing, snowboarding and ice skating outdoors during the snowy months of the year. These winter sports will provide you with the opportunity to stay active and fit while enjoying a change of scenery for your exercise routine. If you have never been skiing, ice skating or snowboarding, consider signing up for lessons and find your way to a new level of fitness.

2. Perform an optimal warm-up session before heading outside to exercise. If you decide to walk or jog in cold weather, a good warm-up will help prevent injury and prepare you to face the low temperatures. A warm-up session is an opportunity to get your heart pumping and body temperature rising. The cold temperatures outside will not come as much of a shock if you are hot from your warm-up exercises and in need of some fresh air.

3. Exercise from home without bulky and expensive gym equipment. Purchase an inexpensive set of dumbbells, resistance bands and a jump rope from the sporting department of a local store. Use the resistance bands and dumbbells for your resistance training. The jump rope can be used as part of your cardio fitness routine. You can do jumping jacks, push-ups and sit-ups for additional exercise. Any level of activity during the winter is better than none.

4. Purchase aerobics, dance or other exercise videos. You can work up a sweat without leaving your family room. Invite a friend or two to a few times each week to workout with you. You are more likely to stick with your indoor exercise routine if you have people to motivate you. Share your videos with your friends so that you are not always exercising to the same DVDs.

5. Swim at an indoor pool. Utilize an indoor swimming pool at a local community center or fitness complex. Enjoy a summertime sport during the winter. If you are not a good swimmer, consider enrolling in a swimming course to improve your skill level. You can get your heart pumping and strengthen your muscles by swimming.

Tips & Warnings

• Join a fitness center in your area. You do not need to limit yourself to the exercise room. Play a game of basketball or other indoor sports to stay active.
• Do not start a new fitness routine without talking to your physician first.

Resources

• Worldwide Ski Resort Guide
• How to Exercise in Cold Weather (including warm-up tips)

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