5 Ways to Stay Active in Winter

Especially when the weather is conducive to snuggling under a blanket and binging on the latest Netflix show, it’s difficult to get yourself outside and moving. For me, I know that staying inside and hibernating is one of the worse things I can do for myself during the winter months. Whether it’s combating winter depression or just working off the extra calories from the holidays, I know that getting up and moving is a must.

While I’m not always brave enough to take on the winter weather for outdoor runs, here are five ways to stay active in winter, either indoors or outside.

TRY A NEW WORKOUT CLASS

January and February are great times to test out a new workout class that you’ve been curious to try. For the most part, you’re guaranteed that you won’t be the only new person in class so no need to feel out of place. Who knows, you might just find your workout class soulmate!

I hope to test out Orange Theory this month since a friend of mine has been going and has raved about how much she likes it.  

WINTER SPORTS

One way to have fun and stay active in the winter is to participate in winter sports. Especially with the Winter Olympics starting up in a couple weeks, you can watch the pros then hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, or if you’re me, sledding and tubing. My Montana bred husband has tried for years to get me into snow sports but after too many turns on the bunny hill, I’ve decided falling down a mountain isn’t for me. I’ll stick to the inner tube over skis.

HOME WORKOUTS

Don’t want to leave your house, no problem? You can get moving from the comfort of your own living room with at home workouts. Bikini Body Guide is the current popular pick (it’s what I used to get in shape for my wedding) but you can also find tons of at-home workout videos on Youtube (I really liked this channel for dorm room workouts).

SMALL ROUTINE CHANGES

Staying active in the winter, or anytime, doesn’t have to be a big routine or ordeal. Small changes to your daily life can make a pretty big impact without all the fanfare of a new gym routine or workout class. Last winter I went from a seated desk to a standing one, which was a pretty big change and opened my eyes to just how much of my day was spent seated.

There are tons of other small changes that are easy to implement during your workday. Go and talk to someone face to face versus sending them a message or email. Drinking plenty of water during the workday means you’re up on your feet filling up your glass regularly (and also going to the bathroom).

JUST GET OUTSIDE

If you’re one to take on the elements and log your miles outside, just make sure you have the proper gear. Here in Seattle, we are pretty lucky that we have relatively mild winters so this is possible. I always reach for my Brooks gear when I decide to take on the rain and go for my long run outside. Look for winter-specific leggings and thin layers that insulate you against the cold. I REALLY love these Go-To Tights (perfectly named because they are my go-to) since they seem waterproof and fit perfectly without stretching midrun. I’m also hooked on this rain and wind resistant jacket. It makes a huge difference to not be soaked through after the first mile.

What do you do to keep active in the winter? Have you tried Orange Theory? Let me know in the comments!

SHIRT // RUNNING TIGHTS // SNEAKERS // JACKET – c/o Brooks Running

Until next time,
Ana Luiza