Exercising regularly contributes to a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Research shows that getting 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week can help improve your mood, increase your chances of living longer, and reduce your risk of chronic diseases. But committing to a regular exercise routine can be challenging, especially during the coldest months of the year. Luckily, there are plenty of ways you can stay active indoors this winter to maintain your physical and mental health — without overspending on equipment or a gym membership.
It’s easier than ever to work out from the comfort of your heated home.
Finding thirty minutes of uninterrupted time to work out every day may be challenging. The good news is you don’t have to complete your workout all at once. If you’re struggling to fit exercise into your daily schedule, especially indoors, movement snacks may be the workout for you. Consider breaking your workout into multiple 5 to 15-minute sessions throughout the day to achieve your daily activity goal. For example:
If you’re tired of working out in your own home, search for nearby indoor areas that are open to the public. An indoor track or even a mall could be great places to do some walking. You might also have access to a public indoor pool in your community to swim laps.
You’re likely not the only one in your community who is seeking creative ways to stay active when it’s colder outside. Keep an eye out for local fitness studios, athletic brands, gyms, or community centers that host free fitness events indoors. You can also search on community boards or apps to stay in the loop on upcoming athletic events.
Sources:
““Benefits of Physical Activity,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.org), August 1, 2023
“Movement Snacks: Get Up and Move Throughout the Day,” HealthNews (healthnews.com), February 15, 2023
“11 ways to stay active in winter,” Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada (www.heartandstroke.ca)