When winter settles in, it’s tempting to move less, stay inside more, and wait for warmer days to return. But winter doesn’t have to mean hitting pause on movement.
In many ways, it can be a season of renewal—a chance to reset routines, renew our commitment to movement, and focus on what helps us feel strong, balanced, and well. Staying active during the colder months supports both physical and mental well-being—for individuals and families alike.
The good news? Winter offers plenty of opportunities to stay active—both indoors and outdoors. With the right clothing, access to welcoming indoor spaces like a gym or pool, and a flexible mindset, winter movement can be comfortable, accessible, and even enjoyable. Who knows! From walking trails and sightseeing to birdwatching or trying a new indoor routine, you just might discover your new favorite pastime.
Why Staying Active in Winter Matters
Shorter days and colder temperatures can make motivation harder to find, but movement remains one of the most effective tools for maintaining overall health. Regular activity during winter can help:
- Improve energy levels and mood
- Reduce stress and seasonal blues
- Maintain strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health
- Support immune function
For families, staying active together builds healthy habits, supports kids’ physical development, and creates meaningful time to connect—without needing elaborate plans or perfect conditions.
Dress for the Season
Dressing properly makes all the difference when it comes to winter movement. The best approach is layering, which allows you to stay warm without overheating.
- Base layer: Choose moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or merino wool. Avoid cotton, which traps moisture and can make you feel colder.
- Insulating layer: Fleece or wool helps retain heat. Adjust thickness based on activity level and temperature.
- Outer layer: A wind- and water-resistant jacket protects against snow and wind.
- Accessories: Hats, gloves or mittens, warm socks, and footwear with good traction help keep everyone comfortable—especially kids.
Pro tip: Start slightly cool. Your body will warm up once you get moving.
Outdoor Winter Movement
With the right clothing, winter can be a peaceful and refreshing time to get outside. Trails, parks, neighborhood paths, and nature centers are often quieter this time of year, making them ideal for walking or hiking.
Snow-based activities—when weather allows—can also turn movement into play. Sledding, snowshoeing, building snowmen, or casual snow games are approachable for all ages and don’t feel like “exercise” at all.
Even simple neighborhood walks count. Just 15–20 minutes outdoors can boost mood and energy for both adults and kids.
Balance Outdoor Time with Indoor Fitness
Not every winter day is ideal for outdoor activity—and that’s okay. A balance of indoor and outdoor movement helps maintain consistency throughout the season.
Indoor spaces like a gym or community center—your nearest YMCA especially— provide warm, welcoming options when weather limits outdoor plans. Strength training, group fitness classes, open gym time, and youth programs all offer ways to stay active and energized.
An indoor pool adds another layer of opportunity. Swimming and water exercise are low-impact, full-body options that support strength, endurance, and recovery—making them ideal for all ages and fitness levels.
Indoor spaces also allow families to move together while giving individuals the flexibility to focus on personal goals, whether that’s building strength, staying mobile, or simply moving more.
And remember: Your home counts as an indoor space, too! A very simple space at that to stay connected to movement, reminding us that activity can fit into everyday life, not just scheduled workouts. For instance:
- Walking a hallway or identifying a walking route through your house
- Taking a few trips up and down a set of stairs
- Stretching or doing bodyweight movements during commercial breaks
- Playing, dancing, or moving with kids between daily routines
- Using home furnishings, such as a chair for pushups, or home goods, such as a gallon of milk in place of a dumbbell, to your advantage
Tips for Staying Active All Winter Long
- Keep expectations realistic—consistency matters more than intensity
- Plan activity earlier in the day when possible
- Dress for the conditions to stay comfortable and safe
- Stay flexible and listen to your body
- Make it social when you can—movement is often more enjoyable together
Winter Is a Season—Not a Setback
Staying active in winter doesn’t require extreme workouts or perfect conditions. With the right clothing, access to indoor options like a gym and pool, and a willingness to adapt, winter can become a season of strength, resilience, and connection. (You always have options!)
Whether you’re enjoying crisp outdoor air or staying warm indoors, every step counts. Embrace the season, dress for success, and keep moving—all winter long.
-Andrea H., digital marketing director and group fitness instructor