Weeks of inactivity will leave you deconditioned, making it harder to enjoy yourfavorite outdoor activitieswhen spring finally arrives.

As an accomplished distance athlete, Guthrie utilizes the offseason to relish in reduced training demand.

I look forward to winter training for a couple of reasons, he says.

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Im able to train without the pressure of a race right around the corner.

These would includecross-trainingand working on areas of improvement from the last season.

Outdoor winter workouts and sports can check those boxes, too.

photo of ohio state’s cotie mchmahon wearing jersey number 32 and shooting a basketball

physical therapist atHinge Health

Of course, there are plenty ofindoor exerciseopportunities.

However, there are some real benefits to getting out in that snow.

But what do you do out there?

photo of audi crooks shooting a basketball and hannah hidalgo holding a basketball in hand

Enter: fun winter workouts.

Staying fit in the colder months is all about finding an activity that excites you.

Why winter workouts are so good for you

Of course,exercise is essential year-round1.

photo of UConn basketball player Azzi Fudd holding a basketball while wearing a #35 jersey

As a runner, you could take to the treadmill.

Cyclists could join a spin class.

But mixing it up can improve your physical well-being in ways that are worth exploring.

Tara Davis-Woodhall of Team United States celebrates with husband Hunter Woodhall after winning the gold medal in the Women’s Long Jump Final on day thirteen of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Stade de France on August 08, 2024 in Paris, France.

physical therapist atHinge Health

This is important in training your body to adapt to different stresses and increase your strength.

When we connect with nature, there is a physical and mental reaction.

Not only does this phenomenon occur in the summer months, but also in winter.

coach kara lawson from duke university

The same results were replicated in an urban forest park setting.

A quick jaunt to your wooded city recreation area may be just the thing to relieve your stress.

Better body appreciation

Yep: Turns out nature can even make us more content with our bodies.

photo of juju watkins holding a basketball while wearing a usc jersey with the number 12

A stroll outside canelevate your state of body appreciation6.

Snow adds a degree ofresistance9to even a simple walk.

Your muscle groups will be actively engaged during any of these frosty activities.

Where to start with winter workouts

Not sure where to begin?

Just try a few things out!

Slopes have equipment you might rent and lessons to build your confidence.

Look for a skating rink nearby and swallow your pride for an hour or two.

Nowhere near a mountain?

Cross-country skiing or snowshoeing are impressive workouts.

Check to see what your community has to offerits probably more than you think.

Furthermore, you dont have to try a new sport.

you’re able to walk or run outside with a good pair ofgrippy shoes.

To make winter activities more enjoyable, bundle up.

And dont go it alone.

The gym will always be there and can be auseful tool for your wellness.

But for those looking to take advantage of all the seasons, winter sports are where its at.

That means reduced risk of injury and improved performance.

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