Winter Outdoor Fitness Activities

Is your family like mine – every winter getting the “winter blues” with no motivation to do anything especially anything exercise related during these COLD winter months?


Every year it seems that we get into a “rut” of not doing anything outside – its cold, and with kids its hard to “remind” them that being outside is FUN even in the winter! So this year my vow is to get them moving with some fun outdoor activities!


Here are just a couple ideas – hey it can't hurt right:


Outside Workout

Gather the entire family and go outdoors for a family workout. Mom or Dad can lead the group in a fun outdoor exercise routine. Another idea is to let the kids take turns leading the group, and making it like a 'follow' the leader type activity! Or better yet play a game of tag, Frisbee, or tag football.


Jogging/Power Walk

If you’re tired of being stuck inside, get outdoors for a jog or power walk (though if your like me jogging is out, I don't jog). Jog around the block or walk a mile or two. You can add light hand weights to work your arms while you’re walking. Another alternative is to do a scavenger hunt walk – while its not as “strenuous” as a power walk, its a great way to get out of the house, get the kids involved, and have some fun – while “working out” at least a tad!


Ice Skating

Ice skating is an extremely fun form of winter exercise. When lakes are frozen, ice skaters come out of hiding and get out on the ice for lots of fun. Most kids really enjoy ice skating too. And if your anywhere close to New York – skating in front of the tree can NOT be beat!


Snow Shoeing

If you’re tired of jogging and walking, trade your sneakers for snow shoes. Snowshoeing works your leg muscles even more because you have to really lift your legs to be able to walk around. I have not tried this yet, though it sounds like fun – its not something I can do with the kids, so it will have to wait!


Hiking

Many people associate hiking only with the summer months. However, winter hiking is a totally exhilarating fitness activity. Don’t forget to bring along your digital camera so you can take pictures of the beautiful winter scenery as you explore!


Winter hiking is one of my favorites – though I usually seek out different hikes than I take in the summer months – as they are usually hilly and steep. However, Zachary Aubrey and I love to get out there and go hiking – though Zachary is usually strapped to my back, Aubrey loves to walk in front and show ME where to put my feet!


All in all, I admit its REALLY hard to “keep it moving” in the winter months, its cold and its so easy to curl up in front of a warm fire with a cup of hot chocolate – but its important and can be tons of fun to get out there and get moving! So enjoy your winter work outs!

Labels: hiking, ice skating, snow shoeing, winter work outs, working out

posted at 11:06 PM