With the freezing temperatures still upon us, the urge to hibernate is at an all time high. Staying active during the winter months is a great way to keep your energy levels up during these dreary days and a perfect way to pass the time until the sun makes an appearance again.
Bundle up and take it outdoors.
Channel your inner child and enjoy the snow! Playing in the snow can be a great calorie burner. Snowball fights burn an average of 319 calories/hour and building a snowman can burn up to 285 calories/hour. Even lying in the snow making a snow angel can burn up to 214 calories/hour on average!
No snow? No problem! Ice skating, whether indoors or outdoors can burn more than 450 calories/hour and can be so much fun that you forget you are getting a workout.
Sign up for a team sport.
Not only is it a great way to stay social and connect with others, when a team is relying on you to show up you are more likely to stick with the activity. And, many studies show that people who have more social interaction in groups have less symptoms of depression, which is a great way to beat the “winter blues.”
Find ways to keep moving indoors.
The gym isn’t the only place for a workout. From workout DVD’s to home exercise equipment or just simply using our own body weight, you can get a great workout without leaving the comfort of your home. Even simple stretching while watching TV can improve your mood dramatically.
Set a fitness goal for the future.
Have you always wanted to run a 5K? Participated in a charity walk? Or just wanted to get in shape? Committing to an activity now for the spring may be the motivation you need to keep you from hibernating for the remainder of winter.
However you decide to stay active this winter, remember to stay safe in whatever activity you choose.