It’s easy to keep up a regular workout routine when the days are longer, and the weather is warmer outside. The excuses for not working out pour in after the cold weather hits. Below are the top 5 winter exercises to keep you in shape this season.
1. Go to the Mall
The mall isn’t just for holiday shopping. When it cools down outside, the mall can provide a great indoor walking route. Stick with a regular walking routine at the mall by asking a friend to tag along. The buddy system will keep you committed to your walking program, and with every step you take, you’ll whittle your waistline to fit into that dress you keep spotting on your walks! Just try to beat the shopping crowd. Try getting to the mall before most stores open – that way you’ll spend less time dodging the crowds and more time focused on your winter exercise routine.
2. Stay Indoors
You can have a great winter exercise without leaving the house. The best part about exercising indoors is that you can workout around your own schedule. Exercise DVDs can give your body a total workout. If following an instructor isn’t your thing, pop in your favorite CD and dance around the house. Pilates and yoga are also home-friendly workouts. Got too much to do? Kill two birds with one stone by cleaning your home. Sweeping, mopping, dusting and scrubbing all burn fat. Want to add a little extra burn? Speed up your movements.
3. Play Like a Kid
Who can resist a little romp in the snow? From sledding to making snow angels to a snowball fight, spending time outdoors can be good for your body and your mind. Just 15 minutes outside provides the recommended daily amount of vitamin D, which boosts mood and immunity. Warm-ups are just as important in the winter months, so jog in place in your house before heading outside. Last, but not least, dress in layers. Overdressing can aggravate dry winter skin, so wearing layers can ensure you keep that pristine winter glow all season long.
4. Join a Gym
The gym is so much more than the treadmill and elliptical machines. Try out all of the aerobic and strength machines to find out which equipment appeals to your workout most. Most gyms offer one-on-one personal training sessions so you can target specific trouble zones long before bikini season. Like to be a part of a crowd? Join a step, weight-training or Zumba class. Working out with peers, not to mention the fun music, can keep you motivated during the long winter months.
5. Try Seasonal Sports
Take advantage of winter exercises such as ice skating, snowshoeing or skiing. Ice skating builds leg muscle and improves balance. You can burn up to 520 calories by ice skating at a moderate pace for an hour. Like to walk? Try snowshoeing. Snowshoe on designated trails or in the snow, going up and down hills, and you could burn approximately 600 calories an hour. Like to cruise down the slopes? Skiing can feel like pure fun, but you can burn 500 calories an hour skiing downhill.
No matter what winter exercise you choose, stay hydrated throughout the day. Water helps to fuel your body for a workout and keeps skin clear. So, what are you waiting for? Get dressed (in layers) and start your new routine. In no time at all, you’ll look and feel your best.
Image Source: Flickr/Rob Stinnett/Creative Commons
