It's easy to hole up on the couch with comfort food when the days are short and the weather inclement. But the combination of inactivity and overeating further exacerbates the doldrums of the season. Exercise, on the other hand, will boost endorphins and serotonin, two key chemicals involved in brain chemistry and the feeling of happiness. Indoors
If using the exercise equipment at your local gym isn’t your thing, check out the racquetball courts, the pool, or sign up for a kickboxing, yoga, or aerobics class.
If you’d rather skip the gym all together, hit up your local library for home exercise videos, or purchase a Nintendo Wii gaming system along with Wii Fit.
For the guys, a punching bag and a jump rope will keep them de-stressed.
Ladies, pick up a Pilates mat and video and tone every muscle in your body.
Outdoors
Don’t rule out the outdoors for your early spring and winter exercise. There are many fun activities that will get your blood pumping. Just make sure to properly stretch and warm up before heading out. Cold muscles are more prone to injuries. Wear warm clothing, and reflectors if you’re out at night.
Skiing and snowboarding is great exercise. If you’re looking for a cheaper, or more strenuous alternative, rent a pair of cross-country skis or snowshoes for an afternoon.
Packing a sled up a slope will get your heart rate up. Plus, it’s fun coming down!
Snow shoveling works the arms, abs, back, and leg muscles.
Try jogging when whether permits. The crisp air will leave you invigorated. Plus, you burn more calories in colder weather, as your body works harder to keep you warm.
