by Yvonne Bridges

Created on: October 14, 2008   Last Updated: October 20, 2008

While many may view the oncoming winter as a time to slow down with exercising and physical activities, it's actually the time when an entirely new set of options opens up for you. While you may not want to run or bike in freezing temperatures, there are many sports and activities that you can turn to to keep your fun and fitness going strong, both indoors and outdoors. Here are a few activities to consider when the temps begin to fall:

Gym Workouts

When all else fails, there's always the gym. Miss running and hitting the bike trails? Well, with all the new technology that has evolved in fitness equipment, you'll be sure to find a comparable substitute at your gym. Treadmills are really high tech now, and can be programmed to send you through a variety of courses, much like you'll find during your outdoor runs. Also, you'll get to see right in front of you how many calories you burn each session.

If biking is your passion, then beyond just the stationary bike, you can find some real kick butt Spin classes at most gyms these days. Pushing against weighted resistance, these stationary bike workouts are challenging, and will leave you in a puddle of sweat!

If tennis is your thing, and indoor tennis courts are not readily available, make the switch over to racquetball. Pretty much the same concept as tennis, but within an enclosed space and with a much faster return on the ball. This is one sport that will not only satisfy your need to swing a racquet, but will also give you an unbelievable calorie burn.

And for those die hards who won't let a little cold weather stop them, there are always the good old standbys:

Ice Skating

Ice skating is a core and leg based activity that, when done frequently, can really help keep you in shape. And for those with more of an artistic flair when it comes to movement, ice skating can be quite enjoyable. As you progress, there are always new skills to learn and old ones to work on, insuring that you'll get a good calorie burn every time.

Skiing

As ski resorts open, the winter social and fitness scene comes alive. Even more popular today than ever, skiing is not only challenging and fun, but also a great way to keep those leg and core muscles in great shape, not to mention satisfying your need for speed! With skiing, you will develop superior balance, core strength and get a good, fun workout in the process.

Snowboarding

Every year, more and more die hard snowboarders are taking to the resorts and snow parks to shred the 'nar! Snowboarding requires crazy core, hip and leg strength, and it's a workout within itself just learning to have full control of your board. Whether you just want to carve down mountains, or work crazy tricks on the half pipe, this is one activity that will get you ripped underneath all those layers of funky snowboarding clothes.

Cross Country Skiing

One of the top calorie burning exercises, cross country skiing requires that you use your entire body; legs, abs, core and arms, to maneuver through rugged, snowy terrain. An hour of cross country skiing has been known to burn upwards of 800 calories per hour. This is a good, vigorous, strenuous activity that will keep you lean and mean during those long winter months.

So, you don't have to put a halt to your good exercise habits just because it's cold. Explore these options, and you can keep fit all winter long!

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