Stay Active This Season: 8 Winter Workout Ideas to Keep You Moving
Stay Active This Season: 8 Winter Workout Ideas to Keep You Moving
When the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, it is tempting to bundle up on the couch with a warm blanket and hibernate until spring. But winter does not have to put a freeze on your fitness goals. Staying active during the colder months is essential for maintaining physical and mental health—and can even be fun when you embrace the season! Whether you are braving the chilly outdoors or seeking warmth indoors, there are plenty of ways to keep moving this winter. Here are some creative workout ideas to help you stay motivated and active all season long.
Outdoor Winter Workouts
Just because you can see your breath outside does not mean you have to stay cooped up. With the right gear and a sense of adventure, the outdoors can become your personal winter playground. Talk to your doctor before starting any new diet or exercise regime and see if any of the following ideas are right for you!
1. Winter Hiking. Bundle up and hit the trails! Winter hiking offers a peaceful, snow-covered landscape to enjoy while burning calories. Invest in warm layers, sturdy hiking boots, and crampons if you are navigating icy terrain. The added resistance from snow can increase the intensity of your workout, making it a great way to build endurance and strength.[1]
2. Ice Skating. Whether it’s on a frozen pond or a local ice rink, ice skating is a fantastic cardio workout that’s easy on the joints. It improves balance, coordination, and lower body strength while also being a fun way to spend time with friends or family.[2]
3. Snowshoeing. If hiking isn’t enough of a challenge, try snowshoeing. This activity burns more calories than walking or running due to the added resistance of the snow. It’s also a great way to explore snowy landscapes and connect with nature.[3]
4. Skiing and Snowboarding. Hit the slopes for a high-energy workout that strengthens your legs, core, and cardiovascular system. Even cross-country skiing provides a full-body workout that’s as challenging as it is rewarding.[4]
Indoor Winter Workouts
Not a fan of the cold? No problem. Stay active indoors with these engaging workout ideas that keep you warm and moving:
1. Home Workout Videos. Invest in a few pieces of home workout equipment, such as resistance bands, dumbbells, or a yoga mat, and follow along with online workout videos. From HIIT to yoga to dance cardio, there are endless free or subscription-based options to suit every fitness level and interest.[5]
2. Join a Holiday-Themed Fitness Challenge. Many gyms and fitness communities offer seasonal workout challenges, such as “12 Days of Fitness” or “Burn the Cookies.” These programs are designed to keep you motivated and accountable during the holiday season.[6]
3. Indoor Rock Climbing. Head to a local climbing gym to try your hand at indoor rock climbing. It’s a fantastic full-body workout that builds strength, endurance, and problem-solving skills—all while having fun.[7]
4. Group Fitness Classes. Stay motivated and make connections by signing up for group classes at your gym or community center. From spin and Zumba to Pilates and barre, there is a class for everyone. Bonus: being part of a group can help you stay accountable.
Tips for Staying Active in Winter
• Dress for the Weather: For outdoor workouts, layer your clothing to stay warm but breathable. Moisture-wicking base layers and waterproof outerwear are essential. Do not forget gloves, hats, and insulated socks!
• Stay Safe: Be mindful of icy surfaces, dress in bright or reflective clothing if you are out after dark, and always hydrate—even in cold weather.
• Set Goals: Having specific, measurable goals can keep you motivated. Whether it is running a certain distance, improving your strength, or trying a new activity, goals give you something to work toward.
• Make it Social: Invite friends or family to join you for workouts. Staying active together makes exercise more enjoyable.
Instead of seeing winter as an obstacle to your fitness routine, view it as an opportunity to try something new. From exhilarating outdoor activities like snowshoeing and skiing to cozy indoor workouts and challenges, staying active this season can be both fun and rewarding. So lace up your boots, grab your yoga mat, or tie on your skates—because winter is the perfect time to move, explore, and thrive.
[1] “Winter Hiking Tips.” American Hiking Society, 3 Dec. 2020, www.americanhiking.org/winter-hiking-tips.
[2] “The Health Benefits of Ice Skating.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 15 Jan. 2021, www.healthline.com/ice-skating-benefits.
[3] Moore, Jason. “Why Snowshoeing Is the Perfect Winter Exercise.” Outside Online, Outside Inc., 12 Dec. 2020, www.outsideonline.com/snowshoeing-benefits.
[4] Mayo Clinic Staff. “Cross-Country Skiing: A Total-Body Workout.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 10 Jan. 2021, www.mayoclinic.org/cross-country-skiing.
[5] “Best Home Workouts for Winter.” Verywell Fit, Dotdash Meredith, 5 Dec. 2020, www.verywellfit.com/best-home-workouts.
[6] “Holiday Fitness Motivation.” Shape Magazine, Dotdash Meredith, 1 Dec. 2020, www.shape.com/holiday-fitness.
[7] Katsoulis, Alex. “The Benefits of Indoor Rock Climbing.” Climbing Magazine, Outside Inc., 2 Feb. 2021, www.climbing.com/indoor-rock-climbing-benefits.