A common winter temptation is to take time off from exercising to enjoy the comforts of a warm home and relaxation. However, contrary to what many choose to believe, the winter months provide a great opportunity to work even harder to achieve your fitness goals. Although outdoor exercising isn’t always ideal (or the safest decision) during the winter, there are plenty of alternatives to outdoor workouts that are just as effective. Exercising in the winter also requires you to work harder in keeping up your body heat, which in turn leads to more calories burned. Break free from winter lethargy by trying these demanding, yet rewarding, indoor winter workouts.

1.Walking indoors. This very simple alternative to an outdoor walk that can be done anywhere you’d like, while still allowing you to set goals and work hard to achieve them.
2.Climb stairs. This can be done in an office building or at home. Even if you don’t have time to do this as a separate exercise, take the stairs instead of using an elevator for a short workout.
3.Spend time on the treadmill. Home exercise equipment doesn’t always have to be expensive, and spending time on the treadmill or other machines provides you with a challenging workout in the safety of your home (Note: it is best to use exercise equipment in a cooler room, so as not to overheat your body.)
4.Yoga. Yoga is a great physical and mental workout, and almost always performed indoors. Try yoga at home, or attend free classes at a community fitness center.
5.Swimming. Indoor pools provide a great workout environment, and like yoga, sessions are often free (although some gyms might charge a small fee, depending on your location). If swimming doesn’t interest you, try water aerobics as an alternative!
6.Participate in household activities. Simple tasks, like sweeping the floor or decorating your home, provide a way to stay active within your home while doing something productive.
7.Pilates. Like yoga, Pilates is a positive energy-booster and the perfect way to stay active in the winter. Although you can do Pilates at home, taking classes might be your best bet.

You don’t have to become a couch potato just because winter provides you with the opportunity. Challenge yourself by trying any of the above workouts, fight off the winter lethargy, and feel better about yourself physically and mentally! For more information about indoor winter workouts, click here.