The winter season can be quite depressing for most of us. It’s pretty much a given that as the weather gets colder and the days get shorter many of us struggle to stay active and remain in a positive state of mind. I guess it is safe to say we get lazy and go into hibernation until spring comes again. There is still hope that you can shed these extra winter pounds off for summer. Check out these seasonal activities that can nourish your body and do wonders for your spirit as well.

When it is freezing outside, the last thing we want to do is go outside and exercise. I guess we can say winter is our enemy when it comes to exercising. The cold winter winds and the heaping amounts of snow force us to stay inside. And I have to mention the holidays with all the family feasts we have encountered. But in order in avoid gaining weight in the winter, one must keep exercising. We all want to look good for the spring and summer don’t we? Here are some ideas to keep you from gaining those winter pounds.

GO OUTSIDE AND ENJOY THE SCENERY

If you live in an area where the weather gets colder, take advantage of the cold-weather sports that only come around once a year.

Skiing

Try something new and learn a winter sport. Try to find a place that offers skiing or snowboarding. Sometimes there are places that do this with man-made snow. Skiing is awesome exercise for your body and it’s a fun sport to learn. It is also a great way to burn off all those unwanted excess calories.

Ice Skating Ice-skating is another great winter sport that works your whole body. If you have a significant other, I would love to suggest going ice-skating. Not only is it fun and romantic but it is great exercise too.

Sledding

Sledding is always a great option if you have children. You just have to promise to play along and actually go sledding with them.

Walking Outside (Don’t think I am crazy)

Walking is one of the most cost-effective ways to get exercise. The best part is that it does not require any training and the only equipment needed is a good pair of walking shoes, although in the winter you’ll also need to bundle up with a warm jacket and maybe a hat, scarf and some gloves. But don’t let cold weather or shorter days stop you from this great aerobic activity. Many walkers say they feel better, sleep better and have a better outlook overall after they start taking walks.

WAYS TO LOSE WEIGHT INSIDE

Join A Gym With An Indoor Heated Pool

The first and foremost way to combat the winter winds and snow is to join the gym. That way you won’t be forced to bundle up and run outside. Try and find a gym that has an indoor lap pool. Usually most of these pools are heated. That way you can warm up your body in the water and do laps at the same time. Swimming consumes more calories per hour than running or weightlifting.

Watch What You Eat

Just because it is winter, this is no excuse to eat whatever you want. I always hear my friends and family members say over and over again, “It’s winter, no one is going to see me in a bathing suit so why not eat whatever I want?” NO WAY is this good for you. You can still eat what you want and enjoy your meals if you just cut out some calories and eat smaller portions. There are so many good and healthy recipes out there, just try them. I promise you will be happy.