How to Keep Active This Winter

The next month is full of fun social engagements and festivities, we’re all a lot busier, making it hard to fit in healthy activities. January and February are cold and dark, making it tough to get motivated when the wind is howling or the snow is blowing. But it’s important to stay active during the winter months, especially following overindulgence during the holidays.

Below are 10 ways to keep active and healthy this winter.

1. Find A Fun Winter Activity: Why not try ice-skating, ski-ing or join in with the kids sledging.

2. Keep Warm Outdoors: Wear layers that will keep you nice and cosy when you first head out, but that you can remove during activity. Invest in a good base layer that will keep you comfortable.

3. Drink Up: It may be the holiday, but it’s important to keep hydrated, make sure you drink plenty of water or herbal tea. You might not feel as thirsty during winter exercise, but hydration is just as important as in the summer.

4. Use Daylight Hours: Plan ahead and arrange outdoor activities with its still light out. If you’re going a walk or run, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to get back before it gets dark.

5. Take a Walk Indoors: If it’s too wet and cold to go for a walk, find the largest shopping centre in your area and go for a walk there.

6. Make it a Group Activity: If you are struggling for motivation, join a walking or running group or start one with friends. This will add motivation to keep going and to stick to plans.

7. Sign Up For the Local Gym: There are often promotions at the beginning of the year you can take advantage of and a variety of classes and activities means there should be something you will enjoy.

8. Create a Home Gym: This may be a spare room or just a corner of your living room. Buy some inexpensive equipment such as stretch bands and a stability ball.

9. Climb Stairs: Either at home or in your workplace, spend as little as five minutes at a time climbing up and down the stairs for a very intense and efficient workout.

10. Get Wet: Not out in the rain, but at the local pool. Swimming, water aerobics, or even just walking or running laps in the water are great exercises for all abilities.