Top 10 Indoor Exercise Ideas for Winter

During the Winter, we're less active. We've put away our swimsuits, stowed the bicycle in the garage, and aren't looking fondly on running in sub-freezing temperatures. Coincidentally, Winter is also when we have some of the best food holidays. While not in Winter, Thanksgiving hits just as the temperature has become a tad uncomfortable for outdoor exercise. Christmas, just weeks away, is another food holiday for many. Winter is a time for baking: candies, cookies, delicious breads and pies. With your body all covered in layers from the cold, it's easy to let yourself go. Try these top 10 exercise ideas for Winter to keep the pounds away.

Obviously, a gym membership allows you to continue your exercise routine in the comfort of a climate controlled fitness center. For as low as $25 a month, you can use state of the art fitness equipment to keep the weight at bay.

Malls offer another comfortable alternative to walking in the cold. Many indoor malls open early for mall-walkers, and for those needing coffee, or a 'light' snack during their walk, there is usually a food vendor open in the wee hours. Just be sure to avoid the jumbo cinnamon rolls. You're there to lose weight, or keep it off, right?

For people in an apartment, many apartment communities offer residents a free fitness center. While more limited than a gym, this offers apartment dwellers with a free option to exercise.

Fitness videos or dvds abound. Purchase one, or check one out from your local library to try it out. These will keep you looking good in the comfort of your own home.

Similarly, try a dance video. Learning to dance is a great way to shed some extra weight or stay trim. Plus, you'll be learning some moves to impress your partner the next time you go out.

If you're going to purchase one machine for your home, an elliptical is probably one of the best investments you'll make for weight loss. High quality ones can cost $2000 or more, but you can pick up a decent one for $400 or so. Calories will fly off of you if you use one regularly.

It's not necessary to spend a thing. Sit-ups and crunches will tighten your abdomen and help to keep that Winter weight off. By changing what you do with your hands, you can intensify your workout. Hands at your sides, and you have an easier workout. Hands behind your head and you have a harder workout.

Stair climbing is another free exercise that can be done in any home with stairs. This will work out your legs and get the heart to racing.

Some employers offer free use of a fitness facility. Be sure to check this out at your employer.

Finally, consider learning or keeping up with martial arts. You'll increase your self confidence, stay fit, and have fun doing so.

Winter doesn't mean you have to pack on extra weight due to inactivity. Just use some of the above-mentioned top exercise ideas for Winter and you'll feel great about yourself.