Winter Weight Loss

It’s hard to keep weight off in winter when the gyms are closed and the cold temperatures put you off your usual exercise routine. Luckily, there are many cold-weather outdoor activities to get your heart rate pumping; you’ll be burning those calories in no time.

Remember, if you haven’t tried these sports before, be responsible and do some research before you begin. Safety first!

Cross country skiing

If your main goal is weight loss, this is the activity for you. Cross country skiing is one of the most physical cardio activities you can do. Your arms and legs are both constantly moving, whereas with other activities it’s usually one or the other. Skiing involves using all of your limbs to drive yourself forward, fighting snow and gravity along the way.

An uphill cross country skier can burn more than 1000 calories per hour, so if you want the burn, grab some skis.

Skiing and snowboarding

Skiing and snowboarding are excellent ways to strengthen your legs, balance, and coordination. They’re also amazing for burning calories. Despite a downhill slope not seeming all too exhausting, both activities constantly involve working those leg muscles. Expect some hard breathing, a heart rate increase, and loads of those calories burned.

Ice skating

Ice skating is a very diverse activity. You could skate laps around a rink at a fun, leisurely pace, or you could try to be like Apolo Ohno and set a new speed record. Either way, you’re getting your heart rate up and burning calories. It’s also an excellent way to strengthen your ankle joints and improve your balance and coordination.

Snowshoeing

Think walking, but harder. Snowshoeing is a very physical activity that’s great for beginners. Regardless of how steep the terrain is, you’re still lifting extra weight with snowshoes on. If you try snowshoeing on a powder day, you’ll feel that extra burn pushing your legs through the snow. This activity also won’t break the bank; new snowshoes sell for around $50. Once you own a pair, you can use them whenever you like and not pay a thing. So, if other winter sports seem a little too intense, this might be the one for you.

Maddy has worked in the health and fitness industry for 5 years. She has a bachelors in Exercise Science and has recently received her Masters in Exercise Physiology. She has worked with a wide demographic of clients as a Personal Trainer and loves helping people reach their goals and continue to grow.  She is an outdoor enthusiast and dedicates her workouts to rock climbing, hiking and whatever new experiences may come her way.

Main Photo Credit: lzf/shutterstock.com; Second Photo Credit: sportpoint/shutterstock.com; Third Photo Credit: dilyaz/shutterstock.com