Depending where you live, the weather is probably starting to get a little chilly, or will be soon. While this feels great in contrast to the scorching summer we just had, we all know what’s coming: winter. And when it’s here, it will likely be really hard to convince yourself to stay active. We get it - we’ve been there. That’s why we’ve made a list of some of the best ways to stay active this fall and winter.
Staying Active through Winter Sports
There are plenty of winter sports out there that are entertaining enough to make you forget about the ice on your eyelashes. If you haven’t tried them before, skiing and snowboarding are always a great way to enjoy a day or two with friends and also get a pretty good workout in! Or, if you don’t have a whole day to spare, grab some friends and go ice skating at your local rink. If you’re good enough at that, you could even play some ice hockey!
Indoor Sports: Staying Active and Inside
Just not willing to give up your favorite summer sports? That’s cool, too! Most of them have indoor variations, and it’s usually not too hard to find a gym in your area with all the facilities you’ll need. It’s always fun to start a team with friends and play some soccer, basketball, dodgeball, or volleyball, or you can get some “you time” by doing some peaceful laps in the pool.
Join the Gym!
This one may seem obvious, but it’s worth pointing out anyhow. It’s never a bad idea to get a gym membership, but it’s especially valuable when it’s cold outside. If you can, find one that’s close to your home or workplace so you can’t give the classic “it’s too far away” excuse during lousy weather.
Get your HIIT by Hitting the Stairs
There’s a reason stair climber machines are so popular - they’re a great workout. If you have access to one, great! If not, you can still take the stairs over the escalator or elevator wherever you go. Or, if you live or work in a building with lots of stairs, you can do laps on those for a good lower body and cardio workout!
Workout from the Comfort of your Home
Working out at home is certainly cheaper than getting a gym membership, but what do you do if you don’t have or can’t afford a bunch of equipment? It may not be as straightforward, but it’s still possible to get your sweat on. Buy some cheap gear like a couple dumbbells or resistance bands, or better yet, keep it completely free with some body weight workouts, and you should be in good shape (pun intended).
Be Active without Realizing It
None of this sounding like it’s your thing? That’s totally fine; just go out and have some fun! Gather up some pals and have a snowball fight, get nostalgic and build a snowman or a snow fort, make some snow angels, or go sledding. You’ll have so much fun you won’t even realize how much exercise you’re really getting!
Give Yourself a Break
Remember, even little things can help you stay active, so you don’t need to go all out every single day. Sometimes your activity will just be raking leaves, or, once it snows, shoveling the driveway, and that’s okay. You don’t always have to be breathing heavy to get good activity in.
It’s also important to remember that you’re not alone. Lots of people find it hard to motivate themselves during the colder months, but as long as you make it fun, and maybe get some friends to keep you accountable, you should be fine. It’s all about doing what makes you feel your best!
