Even the most ardent fitness enthusiast finds it harder to stay active when winter rolls around. Shorter days, colder weather, and big holiday meals can sap motivation. And as the University of Exeter points out, you’re also fighting the body’s instinct to stockpile fat during the winter months.
The good news is that there are many winter activities to maintain your lifestyle. PowerBlock has come up with eight ways to be active in the winter so you can make the most of the season.
Find Outdoor Winter Activities
Even in colder temperatures, there are plenty of fun things to do outside. Go snowshoeing and sledding, visit the local ice rink or try cross-country skiing. Digging the car out after a snowstorm counts as exercise, too. Dress in layers and enjoy the winter wonderland!
Look for New Indoor Workouts
If it’s too cold and snowy outdoors for your taste, there are fun indoor winter activities that work up a sweat. Indoor sports complexes can have rock climbing walls, spin classes, pools and other options. If you’ve never tried yoga or swing dancing, the winter is a perfect time. It’s a great opportunity to experience something new.
Make Fitness a Social Activity
Being active is always more fun with family and friends. Sign up for an indoor basketball league, start a walking group, build a family snow fort in the backyard or have a dance party in the living room. Social fitness also provides accountability partners to keep you driven.
Create a Home Gym
Even if you literally can’t leave the house due to a snowstorm, you can work out at home with the right equipment. PowerBlock has plenty of adjustable dumbbells, kettlebells, workout benches and other compact gear. And by cutting out travel to and from the gym, you’ll have more time for other things you want to do.
Start a Challenge
Need motivation? Giving yourself a goal or challenge will help you stay driven. Research the best 2-week workout challenges and find one that interests you. Sign up for a Thanksgiving Day or New Year’s Eve run as something to train for. Something as simple as a step goal per day can keep you on track.
Be Flexible
Many things can throw your plans off in the winter, including hectic holidays and sudden snowstorms. While setting a plan is the best way to stay active, be willing to adjust that plan if something comes up. Remember that skipping or changing one workout isn’t going to ruin your fitness goals – but letting one disruption get you in a funk will.
Find Little Opportunities to Move
Creating a few extra moments to be active can go a long way. Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator as often as possible. Or try parking your car a little further back in the parking lot at your office or the grocery store. You’ll barely notice the added time, and those steps will add up.
