As the winter cold sets in, you might find your workout routine disrupted by chilly winds or icy conditions. Though it’s tempting to come home and curl up under a blanket, you need to keep moving all winter long. Not only will it help you stay in shape and prepared for spring weather, but it can help fend off colds and flus, burn off that holiday weight and keep you happy and upbeat even when you miss the sunshine. No matter what exercise you enjoy most, you can find indoor alternatives that help you avoid cold weather. Try out the six winter workouts from home below to keep moving in a warm indoor environment. Once you find an activity you enjoy, stick with it for a happier, healthier winter.
Yoga
Yoga provides relaxing physical activity all year long and can easily be done in your bedroom, living room or just about anywhere in the house. You can even use yoga first thing in the morning to wake up slowly and get your body warmed up for the day. If you are new to yoga, try out a beginner level class or explore resources online to learn more about meditation and poses.
If the cold weather really has you down, try out hot yoga at a studio. The studio will be at least 87 degrees, giving you a warm retreat from winter air.
Running Alternatives
If you love cardio, you probably don’t want to give up that runner’s high, but you might not want to venture out into frosty conditions either. During the cold winter months you can get your heart pumping indoors with cardio workouts you can do at home, such as:
- Climbing stairs
- Jumping jacks
- Mountain climbers
- Burpees
- Jump rope
- High knees
Play
Chances are your family and family pets are getting a little stir crazy inside the house, too. Play actively with your kids or pets for another cardiovascular workout option. Whether it is a game of hide and seek or a family dance-off, playing together is a good workout and great fun. Just be sure to secure the breakables and move that coffee table out of the way.
Calisthenics
The military has used calisthenics (or bodyweight exercises) for years to build up strong soldiers. You can do calisthenics in your house easily without purchasing any special equipment. Just perform three or four of these exercises three or four times a week to grow stronger all winter long.
- Push-ups
- Crunches
- Leg lifts
- Planks
- Squats
- Lunges
- Chair dips
- Calf raises
Fitness Blender workouts
If you aren’t sure what type of home workout is right for you, check out FitnessBlender.com. The husband-and-wife duo offer free full-length workouts of all different types and difficulties so you can find a routine you enjoy. They also offer workouts made for busy schedules, getting you the most exercise in the least amount of time.
Find your indoor alternative
If you simply can’t motivate yourself to work out at home, it might be time to find a gym that hosts an indoor alternative to your favorite workout. If you are a bicyclist, check out cycling classes. If you run, sign up at a place with tons of treadmills. Though gym memberships can be expensive, staying healthy throughout the winter is worth the investment.
You can keep exercising all winter—without risking frostbite. It might take you a few tries to find an indoor workout you love, but don’t give up; you might just find your new favorite activity.