While curling up with a warm drink or binge-watching films is certainly appealing during the chilly months, it’s still important to stay active and sneak in some physical activity from time to time.
Everyone has preferred ways to work out, but one thing remains true: you don’t have to spend a fortune on gym fees or a personal trainer to have fun, stay warm and get fit. These budget-friendly options will keep you moving through winter and into the warmer months.
As always, check with your doctor before beginning any fitness routine to confirm you don’t have any health restrictions. Ready to break a sweat?
Stay Indoors
Baby, it’s cold outside. Depending on where you live, a cozy indoor workout might be more appealing. Here are some indoor ideas to stay in shape when the weather won’t cooperate.
1. Follow YouTube Workouts
YouTube is more than viral clips — it’s a rich source of free exercise sessions you can do at home.
Consider trying the “30 Days of Yoga” series starting with “Day 1: Ease Into It,” a 35-minute session that eases you into a steady yoga habit. “Day 4: Stretch and Soothe” helps continue warming a beginner Yogi, and the whole series provides daily practices for a month. “Yoga for Beginners” is another 40-minute home yoga option, while Pilates fans may prefer “Pilates for Beginners.”
If you want something more intense, check out Fitness Blender’s popular 37-minute “Fat Burning Cardio Workout,” which has attracted millions of views. For core-focused routines, Jillian Michaels’ “6 Week Six-Pack Abs Workout” is a solid pick. Zumba lovers might enjoy the 50-minute “Easy Zumba Class.”
2. Look for Discounted Gym Plans
Although YouTube is excellent, sometimes leaving the house helps. Chains like 24-Hour Fitness run rotating specials, coupons and free trial passes. They also have newsletters that announce additional promotions. Costco likewise provides discounted gym memberships, so use your memberships wisely.
Also check with your employer’s HR office for special rates. Some workplaces negotiate gym discounts with nearby facilities. Blue Cross Blue Shield’s Federal Employee Program has reduced-rate memberships at thousands of fitness centers nationwide. People with Aetna coverage can find discounted access as well.
Many gyms provide free day passes to prospective members, and current members can often bring a guest at no charge. Ask around to see if anyone has spare passes. Students should inquire about special student pricing and make use of campus fitness centers.
3. Join Your Local Rec Center
Local recreation centers often have affordable daily fees and membership choices. Many provide a wide range of classes and even adult sports leagues. My nearby rec center features a pool and a water slide! Explore what your community rec center offers — you might be surprised at the amenities.
4. Enroll in Indoor Sports Leagues
Sign up for an indoor sports league to stay fit and entertained through the cold months. From basketball to badminton, community leagues cover a variety of interests.
Whether you prefer bowling, racquetball or dodgeball, local indoor leagues are a fun way to meet people and keep moving all winter.
5. Take Classes at a Community College
Many community colleges provide exercise courses, ranging from simple walking sessions to diving lessons. Check the offerings at nearby colleges — you might even earn credits if you’re pursuing a degree.
6. Use Deal Sites and Coupon Books
Groupon and Living Social frequently offer discounts on active pastimes like indoor climbing or laser tag. Watch for daily deals.
If you prefer not to track daily offers, consider an Entertainment Book to use coupons for batting cages, gym passes and more.
Get Outside
If conditions allow, bundle up and head outdoors to enjoy winter scenery while exercising.
Dress in suitable layers and be mindful of how your body responds. If you notice extreme cold, numbness or pain, go indoors to warm up — hypothermia and frostbite are real risks in winter.
7. Take a Walk
Soak up fresh air and some Vitamin D while you get your steps. Don’t let cold or rain keep you in. Dress warmly, add a waterproof outer layer if needed, and take a walk. In icy regions, consider traction devices like Yaktrax or MicroSpikes to keep your footing secure.
8. Give Snowshoeing a Try
Explore snowy terrain wearing snowshoes. Take a beginner class or go out with seasoned friends.
Pick up tips from this video, and consult Snowshoe Magazine’s First-Timers Guide for advice on choosing snowshoes (you can find options new for $100 or less), safety tips (don’t go solo, always inform someone of your route and return time), apparel suggestions (layer up) and potential hazards (including hypothermia and frostbite).
If you grow fond of snowshoeing and want more speed, consider competing in a snowshoe race.
9. Try Cross-Country Skiing
Downhill skiing can be expensive (though not always), while cross-country skiing often costs less and still delivers a great workout.
Numerous YouTube tutorials show basic cross-country techniques, but it’s wise to go out the first time with an instructor or experienced companions. Follow safety best practices: dress appropriately, don’t travel alone, and tell someone where you’re headed and when you’ll return.
Locate instructional programs and learning centers via the Cross Country Ski Areas Association site.
10. Chop Firewood
Splitting wood is a surprisingly effective workout and can lower your heating expenses. Be cautious and use proper safety gear. What’s better than a vigorous workout followed by a cozy fire and its soothing crackle?
11. Play Like a Kid Again
Have a snowball fight, build a snowman, skate on an ice rink or climb the tallest hill you can find and sled down. Whether you have kids or not, these activities are fantastic ways to exercise and enjoy laughs that banish winter blues.
Your Turn: What’s your favorite low-cost way to stay active during winter?
