Ideas for Getting Exercise During the Cold Winter

By Derek Paulus, digital marketing specialist at Network Health
11/22/2024

Wisconsin winters are not for everyone. While some may enjoy the cold, crisp air and crunchy snow that comes during the season, others try to avoid it by staying indoors.

Regardless, winter weather does shake up everyone’s activity levels. If you can’t stand the cold, finding ways to remain active indoors can be a challenge. If you do enjoy the cold weather, you still may not have all the activities you’re used to in warmer weather readily available. Jogging on icy sidewalks or hiking at High Cliff State Park in knee deep snow aren’t ideal ways to exercise. But whether you enjoy the winter weather or hate it, we have some activities to consider that will ensure you can remain active from December through March.

Ways to Stay Active Indoors During the Winter

Indoor Rock Climbing

Rock climbing doesn’t have to be an outside activity, and it doesn’t have to be nearly as terrifying for those afraid of heights. You can challenge yourself with indoor rock climbing at a number of locations throughout Wisconsin. You should be able to find one with a simple search online but you can also check with any of your local amusement centers or gyms. Indoor rock climbing is an effective way to build strength and agility.

Swimming

Whether you swim in an outdoor or indoor pool, swimming is a great low-impact workout. Consider signing up for a water aerobics class if you are looking for a structured exercise. That said, simply taking the kids for a day at the pool can still be a great way to have fun and stay active.

Dancing

You don’t have to be a good dancer to use the activity as a form of exercise. Bad dancing can work just as well. Of course, you can also enroll in a ballroom dancing class, which can be a lot of fun.

Indoor Trampoline Park

These have become quite popular over the last decade or so, and you’ll likely find one or more near your local area. Like swimming, this can be a great activity to enjoy with the kids, but it’s fun for adults too. You can even join groups to play trampoline basketball or dodgeball if you prefer team activities.

Boxing or Martial Arts

All you really need to get started with this activity is a punching bag and the appropriate gloves, and you can practice boxing or martial arts at home. Punching, kneeing and kicking a punching bag can also release stress. Of course, proper technique is important to avoid injury, so consider doing some research online or joining a class.

Ways to Stay Active Outside in the Winter

Snowshoeing

If you enjoy treks out into nature, they don’t necessarily have to stop when the snow comes. All you need is a pair of snowshoes added to your winter weather gear and you’ll be able to navigate Wisconsin’s natural beauty.

Sledding

You might think of sledding as just something kids do for fun, but it can actually be a great workout. Trudging up the hill to ride back down is great for your leg muscles and can get your heart rate going. Plus, it’s a physical activity you can enjoy with your kids too.

Ice Skating

This is an activity you can enjoy both inside and outside, and it’s likely more beneficial than you may realize. In addition to being a great way to work out your leg muscles, it can also help with your balance and coordination. Like sledding, it’s another activity you can enjoy with the kids.

Hopefully this gives you some ideas, but whatever you decide to do, the most important thing is that you are staying active. If you need more ideas that suit your physical capabilities, consider discussing it with your personal doctor.