by Shauna Zamarripa

Created on: November 14, 2008   Last Updated: December 10, 2008

Just because it's cold outside, doesn't mean you have to put your exercise routine on ice. Not only is outdoor exercise during the chilliest season of the year possible, it's actually good for you and provides additional health benefits when compared to huffing and puffing in the gym or struggling through a routine amidst a sea of household clutter.

Scientists tell us that those who participate in outdoor activities are less likely to get colds than individuals that transition to indoor exercising alone. Preposterous you say? Not really. When you continue exposure of your body to the weather, you become acclimated to whatever Mother Nature can dish out, while boosting your natural endorphin levels a natural immunity to the disease and pestilence spread during this season. Additionally, gyms, malls and other famous indoor winter exercise spots run on re-circulated air. You guessed it, the more germs you breath in, the more likely you are to become infected with the latest bug.

While out door exercise brings with it some fantastic benefits, the bad news is that you might have to make some modifications to your normal routine to compensate for whatever Jack Frost has in store. It might be necessary to pick up some new exercises altogether if you live in an area where conditions of ice and snow can become extreme. Yet, before you start sifting through the want ads to see if Santa has any openings to pull his sleigh in order to change up your exercise routine, consider these options first:

Snowshoeing

Not only is this a challenging sport, but also it's a way for you to blaze trails through untouched virgin powder while burning over 500 calories per hour.

Cross country skiing

In rural areas, this can be a better way to pick up a gallon of milk than jumping in your pick up truck. Not only is cross-country skiing a very popular wintertime sport, but it's easy to learn and will burn around 600 calories per hour.

Snow Biking

This is a great way to stay fit during winter, by placing a pair of good, high traction tires on your bike and taking off on journeys all around your neighborhood.

Of course if you are lucky enough to live in an area of the country where you have clean sidewalks this season, you can keep up your normal routine going hiking, running or walking, and merely modify your attire to include a few more layers.

Winter exercise tips:
Check with your doctor Get the nod of approval prior t picking up any exercise program.
Dress for the weather Dress in layers in order to

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>