Winter's almost here, and the cold weather may dictate if your outdoor
exercise routine is still a doable activity. But, not to worry, you can stay in
tip top shape even during the winter months. All it takes is a little
motivation, creativity and routine change.
If you live in a state where the winter all but screams stay inside, and you
prefer to run or play outdoor sports, try these exercise ideas instead:
Hop, skip and jump in your own personal space.
Have a DVD or VCR player? Then the next time you are at your local
electronics store or super store, check out the exercise video section. There
is a myriad of cardio, aerobic and strength training videos available. Pick a
few out and allot 30 - 60 minutes each day for a exercise class in the privacy
of your own home.
Treat yourself to health.
Spend a few extra bucks each month and join a gym. Make sure you choose one
that is conveniently located - pick a gym that is close to your home or work in
order to give you that extra motivation. Gyms offer a wide variety of exercise
classes and provide the latest in work out equipment.
Find a sports organization near you.
Many cities have organized sports available to the average Joe. Join a
basketball, floor hockey or swimming team that you can join. Or, get a group
together and find an open court to play your own game.
Invest in your health.
Maybe you're not into exercise classes or find exercise videos aren't your
cup of tea. Instead, purchase a treadmill or stationary bike to push your
workout to the next level.
Let's go to the mall!
Chances are that your local mall opens a bit earlier in order to provide a
safe indoor walking track during the winter months. Go for a stroll three or
four times a week to keep the pounds off.
Stuck on the outdoors.
If you live in a state that has mild winters, or even if you experience
harsh winters but love the outdoors, try these exercise suggestions:
Downhill skiing. If
you are a skiing fanatic, buy a season pass at the closest slope and make
it a routine.
Run rabbit, run. Love
to run? Buy the necessary winter clothing (and don't forget reflective
strips for the dark morning or evening hours) and hit the great outdoors.
Running tends to be a better experience when the weather is cooler, but
make sure it isn't too cold out - you don't want to push yourself too
hard.
Frisbee or disc golf.
Frisbee/disc golf is all the rage - it is a fun activity that
burns the calories quite well. Find out if you have a group in your area
and join in order to maintain a fun workout.
Ice skating anyone? Ice
skating is another great way to burn calories, so find a local outdoor
rink and do some high energy laps.
Hockey. Bring
your ice skating to the next level - play some hockey. Get the family
together, or find a group willing to play a few days a week. You'll have a
blast and burn those calories.
Walk it out. If
you have mild winters, chances are you can still walk your normal outdoor
track. Keep up the pace and wear appropriate clothing in order to be safe.
Cycling. Again,
if you live in a mild climate, biking is still an option for you.
Depending on the season, you may want to adjust your biking routine to
make sure the sun is out so you can be seen, or wear reflective clothing
that's easy to spot.
Snow shoes work the
legs. Snow on the ground? Grab a pair of snow shoes for an
ultimate leg work out. You'll burn more calories than walking without them
and be able to enjoy the fresh winter air.
Curling. This
sport is usually played in an ice arena or outdoor rink. It's fun, different
from the same old routine and burns calories to boot.