Late winter often finds me with flagging spirits and energy. As February turns into the long often dreary month of March (at least in the Northern Hemisphere), I lose my drive for exercise.

Doesn’t it seem so much easier to get out and move in the balmy breezes and sunshine of summer? And there’s so many more options for working out: biking, walking, rollerskating, swimming, tennis, gardening, jogging — I’m sure you could add your favorite.

Too Busy for Winter Workouts?

The other problem is as a busy woman, wife, mother, caregiver, entrepreneur, _________ (fill in the blank), you may not have much time for exercise. However, even if you only have 10 minutes, you’ll find some options below for at home winter workouts. Ten minutes a day is better than one hour once a week. You’ll see slow, steady progress. And, it’s so important to take care of you so you can take care of others.

So, if you too find yourself stressed, lacking motivation, and would rather sit down with a glass of milk and a handful of cookies, here’s some encouragement to keep going. Below you’ll see a few of our favorite at home fitness workouts you can do when the weather outside is frightful. (As always, make sure your doctor says you are in good enough health to exercise.)

Benefits of Exercise

• Manages blood sugar and insulin levels.
• Builds your immune system.
• Improves the structure and function of your brain.
• Improves your mental health and mood.
• Increases your energy.
• Burns calories.

Interested in more information? Check out Mayo Clinic’s article on the benefits of exercising. 

Favorite At Home Winter Workout Resources

Leslie Sansone Walk at Home. Leslie offers many free videos on You Tube. She also has an inexpensive ($4.99/month) subscription website with many excellent workout videos for all different fitness levels, men and women. I highly recommend this.

Ellen Barrett Mindful Movement. Like Leslie, you can find some free options from Ellen on YouTube. She also has a paid option at a very reasonable 5.95/month.

Sarah Beth Yoga. I realize that some Christians don’t do yoga. When I have Googled stretching exercise, I find many of the same exercises that are taught in yoga. We have found these stretches and strengthening routines to be so helpful, (no matter what you call them). Granted, we stick with basic routines and stay away from any in-depth teachings. However, do what you feel comfortable with. Sarah Beth has many free options on You Tube plus a pricier paid yearly subscription.

Dance party. My daughter, who has a baby and a preschooler, can find the long winter days very confining. If the weather is too bad to bundle up her crew, she’ll yell “Dance Party!” put on some loud music, grab the kids, and go to town dancing. The kids love it, and usually by the time they’re done, they’re breathless and laughing. Consider the alternative. Crabby and crying?! Give it a try. And you’ll probably learn some really interesting dance moves from the little ones

How about you?

Do you have a favorite way/resource to stay in shape over the winter? If so, we’d love to hear it. Leave us a comment below.