Ideas for Keeping Active in the Winter
Jan 18, 2022
Winter can pose challenges to being active for the full 150 minute weekly recommendation. Sometimes we need to just get creative with our thinking. Maybe it’s participating in an activity that is better suited for winter months or maybe it’s modifying our already established routine. We’ve collected some ideas below to help keep you active this winter!
- Spend some time outdoors. While there are bound to be days that we are best to keep inside, many days see warmer temperatures or little wind. Take advantage and get outside for a walk! Need a change of scenery? Checkout a city or state park.
- On colder days, head to the mall to take a walk indoors
- Need a break at work? Take a few minutes to walk around the building or do some chair exercises.
- If the roads and sidewalks are clear and dry, take a spin on your bike.
- Try out a new winter sport: skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snow shoeing are all great sources of exercise.
- Shovel snow. Even if you have a snow blower or something of the like, spend a few minutes shoveling for an extra workout.
- Join a gym. There’s many different facilities around town, so try out a few and pick the workout or environment in which you feel most comfortable.
- Find some online exercise videos or a smartphone/tablet app to stream indoor workouts.
- When you have a choice, take the stairs and maybe do some extra flights.
- Join an indoor sports league such as basketball or volleyball. You could also take up swimming, bowling or roller skating.
- Get out and play with your pets; it’s great exercise for everyone!
- Put on some music and dance. This is also a great way to involve kids!
- Clean your house. Keeping busy cleaning can add lots of steps to your day
- Check out volunteer activities.
- Is your favorite show or movie playing? Try walking in place or getting in some pushups, sit-ups, or jumping jacks.
As always, it’s important to keep safety in mind.
- Keep an eye on temperatures. In case of a temperature drop or wind chill advisories, opt for an indoor activity.
- Always watch for ice and slippery roads/walkways.
- Bundle up with multiple layers, hats, scarves, and gloves.
- Continue to drink water and stay hydrated.
- Wear sunscreen, even when it’s chilly!
- Always talk to your doctor before starting a new, especially strenuous, activity.
