5 fun sports to do in the winter

I also find it a major effort to go to the swimming pool in the winter. The water is usually not warm and I’m sensitive to the cold. But I take the plunge so to speak since I quickly feel warm once I am swimming. Swimming is not as hard on the articulations as running, which is relaxing. After swimming, I reward myself with a hot shower. Many swimming pools also offer group classes, in aqua spinning or water aerobics for example.

The cold weather may put a damper on your ambition to go out for a run. I am addicted to running and will, therefore, keep running a lot in the winter. I must do it. I dress adequately, make sure I have extra lighting and get in the groove. Even though I am a ‘summer lady’, running in the winter can also be very pleasant. I often head for the forest because I find it beautiful in the winter. It smells nice and just after a snowfall, it’s just magical... The perfect place to unwind!

If you really can’t muster the courage to exercise outdoors, yoga is the ideal sport for you. No need to go out in the cold and you get to work on your strength and flexibility. Yoga is considered to be the most relaxing sport, which is a bonus. If you are not afraid to sweat it out, you can opt for a ‘hot yoga’ session. It takes place in a heated room (32 to 35 degrees Celsius) and therefore increases the effectiveness of your workout.

I prefer to exercise outdoors but for many people, fitness centers are a good alternative. They are often open all day and are not affected by the bad weather. Winter is the ideal time to discover a new sport, available in group classes, such as Pilates, Zumba, body pump, BBB, Ubound, HIIT, spinning, and more. Of course, you can also practice your regular sports (cycling, running) in the center with a roof over your head. Another bonus: the facilities often include a wellness area as well. The ideal way to relax after all that exercise!

On a beautiful winter’s day, I love to go outside. There’s no need to practice high-impact sports to enjoy the benefits of exercise. I try to move more in all kinds of ‘smart ways’. I park my car a bit further than my destination so that I have to take more steps. I also go for walks often, alone or with my son. If you have a dog, this gives you a good reason to go as well. Try to move for at least half an hour each day. If you do it in the open air, your enjoyment will be multiplied.

Keep that in mind: summer bodies are made in winter! Exercise a lot and enjoy it. You’ll be glad you did when the spring arrives and you can take those skirts and tops out of the closet again...

Which sport do you like to do in the winter?

Regards, Josefien