The desire to burrow under a mountain of blankets and hibernate until spring emerges as a familiar foe as the sun sets earlier each day and the frosted air nips at your nose. Even though there’s no denying the appeal of cuddling up with a good book during the Winter, skipping out on your exercise can make you feel lethargic, cranky, and long for the feel-good hormones of springtime sunshine. Warriors of fitness, do not fear! It’s easier than you might think to overcome the winter exercise blahs. To keep your fitness fire blazing through the coldest months, gather your warmest leggings, embrace your inner polar bear, and follow these seven tips for staying fit in winter.

7 Tips for staying fit in Winter 

1. Embrace the Light: Exercise in the mornings can seem like a war against the dark, but have faith in the strength of the golden glow of dawn. Give up the snooze button and start your day with a yoga class or jog in the early light. You’ll feel more energized throughout the day. Additionally, working out early gives you more time for post-workout cuddles (with chocolate, of course.

2. Buddy Up While bears hibernate alone, people need social interaction to survive. Join a winter fitness class, work out outside with a friend, or challenge each other to virtual fitness duels. The accountability and camaraderie will keep you inspired even when the wind starts howling.

3. Use Your Creativity with Cardio: When the thermometer drops, there are alternatives to treadmills. Bring out your ice skates, take a snowball fight with your kids, or take to the slopes for some skiing or snowboarding (bonus points for including squats and lunges during your frozen warfare.

4. Get Your Workout Gear Warmed Up: Use layering to your advantage! Invest in windproof outer shells, cozy fleece mid-layers, and moisture-wicking base layers. You’ll remain at ease and maintain a professional appearance, which can seriously increase your drive. Who doesn’t love making a fashion statement during a winter workout?

5. Fuel Your Fire: Warm, filling meals will give your body the extra energy needed for wintertime exercise. Consider foods high in vitamins and minerals, such as stews, soups, and whole grains. Remember to drink plenty of water even if you don’t feel as thirsty as you would in warmer months—extra points for bringing a thermos of hot tea to revive yourself mid-workout.

6. Honor the Minor Triumphs: Every mile traveled and every push-up accomplished counts as a win against the winter blues. Reward yourself for any progress you make, no matter how tiny. Enjoy a soothing bath, reward yourself with a post-workout latte, or bask in the victory of getting off the couch.

7. Recall that consistency is critical: Don’t expect to become a gym rat overnight. Set modest initial targets, such as three 30-minute workouts a week, and progressively up the duration and intensity as you gain momentum. Consistency is critical, even just a quick stroll around the block.

There you have it; winter is not an excuse to relinquish your health objectives. Celebrate the season, use your imagination, and most of all, have fun! Remember that being active has more benefits than having six packs and toned biceps. It also helps you feel better, has more energy, and reminds you that you have the inner fire to stay warm and energetic even on the coldest days. Go forth now, overcome your wintertime depression, and take command of Mother Nature.

Continue Reading: Top 10 Winter Wellness Hacks for Thriving, Not Hibernating