As winter descends with its cool temperatures and shorter days, maintaining an active lifestyle may feel challenging at times. The allure of cosy blankets and indoor retreats can be strong. However, it is important to keep moving during this time to maintain your physical and mental well-being. With a proactive mindset and a few simple strategies, you can stay active and invigorated throughout the frosty winter months. Here are our five tips to stay active during this time:

1. Take leisurely nature walks

Weather permitting, venture outdoors for revitalising nature walks in the crisp winter months. Whether it is a leisurely stroll through your local area or a brisk hike in a nearby park, immersing yourself in the winter landscape can be both refreshing and energising. This is also a fantastic opportunity to catch up with friends and family, with a warm hot chocolate in hand. Bundle up in layers to stay warm and appreciate the beauty that winter brings to your surroundings.

2. Exercise in the gym

Inspired Villages’ climate-controlled gyms and fitness studios provide the perfect temperatures to exercise in, whatever the weather. Joining the gym is a wonderful way to exercise when it is nippy outside. Enjoy individual exercise and group fitness classes, from peaceful yoga to high-energy classes to taking a stroll on the treadmill – there is something for everyone. Moreover, you can swim in our crystal-clear pools and finish with a relaxing trip to the steam and aromatherapy room to warm yourself up. Explore a variety of cardio and strength-training activities within the cosy confines of our fitness spaces, making your winter workouts both effective and enjoyable.

3. Chores as workouts

Transform routine household chores into opportunities for physical activity. Vacuuming, sweeping, and cleaning not only contribute to a tidy living space but also count towards your daily fitness goals. Turn on your favourite music, infuse some energy into your chores, and discover how everyday tasks can become mini workouts, contributing to both a spotless home and a healthier you. We personally love dancing to some lively tunes while sweeping!

4. Volunteer in active ways

Whether it's walking dogs at a local shelter, participating in community clean-ups, or contributing to a communal garden, there are numerous ways to stay active while giving back to your community. Fill yourself with endorphins (and purpose) while increasing your physical activity by exploring volunteer opportunities that involve movement.  Engaging in volunteer work not only benefits your physical well-being but also adds a profound sense of fulfilment to your winter days.

5. Layer up to keep warm

Make sure to conquer the cold by mastering the art of layering. Wearing multiple warm layers definitely helps prepare you to leave your house, and also means you can remove them when you begin to warm up without overheating or catching a chill. Equip yourself with moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and weather-resistant outer layers. This ensures you can adapt to your body's changing temperature during your workout without compromising comfort. Choose comfortable and flexible clothing to make your winter workouts a pleasure rather than a chore.

This winter, don't let the weather dictate your activity levels. Enjoy the magical winter season by incorporating these comprehensive tips into your lifestyle, and you'll find that staying active in winter is not only achievable but can also be enjoyable and rewarding. Join us in the movement to stay active doing the things you love because, at Inspired Villages, we believe in living your Best Years in later life.

Embrace the winter, embrace the movement, and embrace a healthier and more active you!