12 Winter Fitness Tips to Keep You Motivated

The weather outside is frightful. And the couch and Netflix are oh so tempting. Resist! With the right clothing, footwear and motivation you can stick with your winter fitness routine through all kinds of weather, including the dreaded wintry mix. Here’s how to stay fit in winter and beat back holiday weight gain.

Unless you live in a tropical climate, you know it’s winter when you take a look out your window. The days are shorter and undeniably colder. It’s tempting to stay indoors and lounge around under a blanket until spring. Then maybe you’ll pick up your outdoor walking or running habit once again.

You also know you shouldn’t wait. The benefits of outdoor walking and running are both mental and physical. Winter is when you need that the most! In fact, did you know that adults who walk briskly, outdoors for more than 30 minutes each day actually had a lower body mass index than their counterparts who go to the gym? An annual Health Survey for England found that this was even more true as adults age. This proves that regular walking is one of the best forms of exercise out there! So it’s important not to stop, even in cold weather.

When the weather is chilly, your body will work even harder to stay warm, actually burning more calories. Long walks at a relatively quick pace can be just as effective as a run for lowering blood pressure and risk of disease. Fresh air and exercise are the perfect combination for your mood and mental disposition too. Got winter blues? Beat them by staying active!

If you can’t move south for the winter, maybe you are better off! With a few tips on safety, how to dress appropriately (layering, people!) , what to say to yourself when you are tempted to put your slippers back on and curl up on the couch, you will be out there maximizing your fitness benefits. We have compiled a list of 12 of the best fitness tips that will keep you walking or running outdoors, even in the winter! It truly is a Winter Wonderland. Stay healthy, my friends!

5 Tips for Winter Wellness | A Foodie Stays Fit

3 Health Benefits of Walking in Winter | MNN

Cold Weather Exercise and Safety | Very Well Fit

10 Tips for Walking in Winter | The Outdoor Adventure Blog

How to Stay Active In The Winter | Running For Sweets

Running In The Snow | How To Run Guide

Winter Running Layering Guide | The Fit Foodie Mama

5 Ways to Stay Active in Winter | Anchored Mommy

7 Winter Exercise Tips for Safety and Motivation | Up Run For Life

5 Tips for Running in Winter | The Wired Runner

How to Breathe When Running in the Cold | Runner’s Blueprint

Cold Weather Running Tips | Run With No Regrets