It can be hard to keep your fitness program alive during the cold winter months. It can be difficult to stick to your fitness routine in winter if you are an outdoor runner, park-yogi, or gym rat. You wouldn’t rather stay in your cozy, warm bed?
Why not compromise? Instead of giving up on your fitness regimen and hibernating for the winter, you can try these great ways to stay in shape indoors.
1. You can take your favorite classes online.
Consider virtual classes if you regularly go to a studio or gym for pilates, yoga, or spin . Virtual classes are becoming more popular than ever. You can take the same classes as in-person but in a home-based format. ).
There are many apps that allow you to take your own classes, or work with a local instructor.
2. Try a different form of aerobics.
Running is not your favorite way to exercise, so try something new during the winter months. You can climb the basement stairs for about an hour. It’s tedious, but it will fly by if you put your headphones on and listen to your favorite podcast. Jump rope. Do some HIIT moves.
3. Spend time with your children.
No, really! You can join your children if they are already having fun and you want to make it a family-friendly workout. Perhaps you invite your children to compete in a dance contest via their favorite video game. You can find many YouTube videos that are suitable for older children. Play an indoor game like Simon Says and Hopscotch that helps balance and strengthens fitness for younger children.
4. Get some weights.
Strength training is a great option if you want to reduce your gym expenses. You can exercise a wide range of muscles by lifting only a few pounds. You might even find the change in pace fun if you are an aerobics enthusiast.
5. Spend a little.
If you are willing to spend a little more on staying active at home in the winter, then you might consider one of these pricier, but still-worth-it, home gym investments.
The Peloton Bike is a clear winner and it’s growing in popularity. This high-tech option will appeal to anyone who enjoys cycling or aerobics.
Mirror is a new home workout option. This mirror-like device can be used to monitor and record your activity and form in real-time.
6. Try a totally new option.
You may need to find a different option if you are stuck in a workout rut or can’t take part in your regular workouts due to the weather.
You can do more than your usual aerobics, strength training, and yoga. Try something new like rowing or jumping on a trampoline at home. Although the trampoline is certainly the cheaper option, it’s still a great exercise choice.
It doesn’t matter what type of exercise you were interested in, it is now the right time to give it a try.
7. Do not let other fitness goals slip by.
Fitness is not just about exercise. Even if your routine slips a little during winter, you should still pay attention to other aspects of staying healthy. Make sure you drink enough water, especially in winter when it is more dry. Take your vitamins to maintain your immunity system and choose a healthy diet.
Even if you don’t exercise as much in the summer and spring, doing so will help you stay healthy.
If you dare to venture out into the great outdoors…
If you decide to go outside to work out, be sure to pack your clothes and make sure you check the weather forecast before you leave. Nobody wants to get caught in an icestorm or snowstorm while they are sweating. Also, be aware of the symptoms and signs of hypothermia and frostbite, just in case.
