When the temperature drops and the days get shorter, finding the motivation to exercise can be tough.
But according to health coach Victoria Repa, it’s essential to create a routine that feels both realistic and enjoyable.
Here’s how to keep moving without stepping outside.
Gentle movement in bed
Start your day with light exercises that wake up your body. “Bed Pilates” focuses on flexibility, core strength, and mobility, and you can do it without even leaving your sheets.
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Try side-lying leg lifts, cat-cow stretches, and knee-to-chest holds to get your body moving first thing in the morning.
Bring on the beats with a dance session
Music can be the best motivator. Turn up your favorite songs and have a quick living room dance party.
Pilates instructor Portia Page says that even a few tracks can lift your spirits and get your blood flowing. Perfect for a lunch break or after work.
Build strength with your chair
If you prefer to stay seated, chair exercises are an easy way to get moving.
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Seated jumping jacks, sit-to-stands, and leg lifts require minimal effort but offer effective movement.
Short routines can fit easily into your day and help maintain mobility.
Rebounding
A small trampoline in your living room can do wonders. Rebounding helps strengthen your core, improve balance, and boost coordination.
Sports massage therapist Amanda Grimm notes that it’s gentle on the joints yet powerful enough to ease back pain and support overall stability.
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Better posture through mindful walking
Enhance body awareness and reduce back pain with posture-focused walking. Move slowly down a hallway with a tall spine and relaxed shoulders.
This simple exercise improves alignment and can replace outdoor walks during cold months.
Build endurance with stair climbing
Walking or jogging up the stairs builds leg strength and raises your heart rate.
Certified personal trainer Stephen Sheehan recommends controlling your pace on the way down to improve balance and stability.
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No stairs? Use an aerobic stepper for the same effect.
Blend movement into your routine
As winter sets in, consistency is key.
Combine different types of exercises to keep things interesting, mix stretching, strength work, and cardio to build a balanced indoor routine.
Breaks that boost your energy
Even short breaks can make a difference. Stand up, stretch, or move for a few minutes between tasks.
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Small bursts of activity throughout the day can help you stay energized and focused.
Boost flexibility all winter
Cold weather can make your muscles feel stiff. Gentle stretching helps maintain mobility, especially in the hips and shoulders, reducing tension and discomfort.
Bring joy into movement
Exercise doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Whether you dance, jump, or stretch, choose activities that make you happy and motivated to move.
Build lasting motivation
Set realistic goals, reward your progress, and stick with your plan.
A steady routine keeps your energy high and makes it easier to stay active throughout the colder months.
This article is based on information from Real Simple.