How to Keep Active in the Winter

Unless you are lucky enough to live in a warm climate year round, it’s tempting to use cold and snow as an excuse to stay inside. Sure, it’s easier to get out and keep active in the summer, but don’t let the winter doldrums get you down. There are some really great exercises and activities that we can all do to stay fit throughout those cold winter months. Did you know that you can burn up to 350 calories an hour while tobogganing? All that, and the fun of being outdoors with your kids or partner—who could ask for more?

Another great winter exercise is cross-country skiing. Often described by fitness experts as one of the best exercises to keep fit during the winter, you can burn approximately 800 calories in just one hour of cross-country skiing. It takes some practice, but if you can do it regularly it’s a great way to tone your legs and burn fat.

You don’t have to make getting active in the winter a big event. A simple way to burn calories and keep active when the snow flies is just putting on your hat and mittens and getting out there to shovel the driveway. Although this is a tedious task, the physical act of shoveling engages many of the body's major muscles including the abdominals, the obliques, the arms, and the legs. In fact, just one hour of shoveling your driveway can burn up to 350 calories. Just remember to stretch before and after you head out to prevent any strain on your back muscles!

As an added bonus, regular exercise can stimulate serotonin levels in the brain, which can reduce the effects of the winter blahs, and keep you from letting your mood sabotage your diet.

The key to anything you do outdoors in the winter is to dress for the elements. Keep your feet and hands dry and warm, and wear a hat to keep heat from escaping through your head. Don't let the winter and cold weather stand in the way of getting fit this winter. Strap on your skis, bring out the toboggan, and clear that driveway. Your body will thank you come swimsuit season!