5 ways to stay fit this winter
How do you stay in shape when it’s too cold to exercise outside?
When the sun is out and birds are singing, it’s easier to get out and about to keep in shape. But it can be tougher staying motivated during the long winter months. Here are our five top tips to keep fit on those cold dark mornings.
1. Hit the pool
Australians love the beach, but swimming doesn’t just have to be a summertime treat. If you have an indoor pool nearby, sign up for membership and make a habit of taking a dip once or twice a week. Not only could it help build up your fitness and endurance, but swimming regularly improves your ability to maintain a healthy weight.[1]
2. Try it at home
You don’t have to leave the house to work out - there are plenty of ways to keep fit at home. Get a workout DVD or download apps to your smartphone or tablet, to help you work some exercise into your everyday routine. If you have stairs in your house or apartment block, run or walk them daily to get a high-intensity workout for your lower body. Or, if you want to take it down a notch, yoga and Pilates are great ways to build up muscle and stay toned at home.
3. Take a holiday
When the temperature drops, it’s the perfect excuse to book yourself a getaway. And while you’re away, you can use the time off work to reinvigorate your fitness routine. In warmer climates, make time for physical activities like snorkelling, kayaking or cycling, before you cool off at the beach. Or hit the slopes for some skiing or snowboarding. Not only is it fun, the mix of cold and exercise can help you burn fat and get in shape fast.
4. Dance
Exercise doesn’t have to feel like hard work, especially during winter when it can be tough enough to get yourself out of bed, let alone onto a treadmill. For a fun way to burn up calories, why not enrol in a dance class? From Zumba to ballroom, there are dance styles to suit all skill levels and tastes.
5. Buddy up
When it’s cold and rainy, it’s easy to find excuses to ditch the workout – but not if you’ve committed to meeting a friend. Find a training partner, and encourage and motivate each other to keep up your exercise regime. Your buddy doesn’t even need to be human! If you have a dog, walking them can be a great way to stay fit – and they’ll love you for it.
