When chillier days roll around and snow starts to fall, all I want to do is roll myself into a blanket burrito with an unlimited supply of hot cocoa and hibernate until spring. Sticking to my usual workout routine in the winter sounds like actual torture. I mean, who wants to constantly clean off their car just to go to the gym? But if hitting up the gym sounds unappealing AF, there are plenty of other workouts for the winter that are actually so fun, they have the power to lure just about anyone out of a cozy blanket fort, even when it's below freezing outside.
Getting outside and taking advantage of the winter wonderland that magically coats the world around you is one of the best ways to stick to your fitness routine when you're snowed in (or simply lacking motivation). There are so many fun winter activities that are actually low-key workouts, but they're so entertaining that you don't even realize you're doing your body good in the process. Plus, bundling up and exercising on unusual, snowier surfaces actually forces your muscles to work harder than they would on an even surface indoors. More fun and more #gains? Sign me up.
So, the next time you're really not feeling another trip up the StairMaster, try taking advantage of one of these unique winter workouts that are so fun, they don't even feel like exercise.
From strengthening your joints and bones, to boosting your mood, to improving your coordination, skiing is an incredibly beneficial winter workout that is loads of fun.
If you've never tried skiing before, don't worry — hitting the hills with a friend and figuring out how to navigate and balance in the snow will give you an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and learn a few new skills.
Keep in mind, skiing requires you to use a lot of different muscles in your body, not just your legs, but you'll be having such a good time, you won't even feel the burn.
Whether you're going on a date (such a classic, amirite?) or hitting up the rink with a few friends, ice skating is such an underrated form of exercise.
Ice skating helps decrease stress and, of course, improves your balance and coordination. But look, even if you can't stop falling on your butt, you can still have a ball laughing at yourself.
Look for some outdoor skating rinks near you if you want to feel like you're gliding through a giant, wintry snow globe. Or, if there's none near you, you can always opt for an indoor experience with your squad, and sip on hot chocolates together when you can't feel your fingers anymore.
TBH, whenever I go sledding, it brings me right back to my childhood, and it's the most amazing feeling ever.
You might not automatically think of this one as a workout, because you're just sliding down a hill and hoping for the best, right? But, actually trudging up the hill over and over again to get the sled in place is basically like an outdoor version of the StairMaster. You'll be out of breath, sure, but totally full of joy in no time, too.
The thought of hitting the slopes on a snowboard may seem totally out of your comfort zone and a bit intimidating, but there's no harm in starting on the small slopes. Plus, it's always rewarding to learn something new and see your progress as you go. And hey, it's better than another trudge on the treadmill, right?
Mounting a board and working your way through the snow works your entire body from head to toe. But the fun doesn't stop at a stronger core and killer muscles; after a couple of snowboarding sessions, you might even notice improved confidence, less stress, and an overall happier you.
Snowshoeing actually originated thousands of years ago, when people used it as a form of transportation during frigid conditions. But nowadays, it'll simply get your booty out of your blanket cocoon and immersed in a super entertaining winter workout.
Snowshoeing is totally beginner-friendly because it's super easy to learn, so grab a few friends, bundle up, and get a little snowy together. Your heart will be pumping, and your body will love those irresistible, feel-good endorphins.
