Stay active during the frigid Wisconsin winter

When wintertime rolls around, it’s always hard to motivate yourself to get up and work out. You want to be cozy and warm in your bed, and Netflix is impossible to turn off. However, you know you have to be active in order to stay healthy. Yet, going for a common summer run to Picnic Point is no longer an option. Trying to think of ways to get a good workout in during the winter is hard, but there are some ways you can stay in shape during this cold winter season.

Walk around campus

Bundle up; throw on your parka, hat and gloves; and go for a nice stroll around our beautiful campus. Walk down state street and get a steaming hot chocolate to warm up, then walk along Lake Mendota or to the Capitol. When walking to class, take a different, longer route to get some exercise in. It may not seem significant, but walking is still much healthier than laying in bed.

Go to the gym

Going to the gym is often boring, but it can be fun to explore the machines. Although the SERF is closed, there are alternative gyms you can go to such as Ogg Fitness Center or the Natatorium. Some of my favorite exercises at the gym are using the elliptical, bike and walking on an incline. Plug in your music and start burning those calories!

Take classes

A fun and enjoyable way to get your exercise is by taking a class, and there are many great options in Madison. If you want an upbeat and fun workout, take a cycling class at Cyc. If you want to relax and clear your mind, take a yoga class at Inner Fire Yoga. The Natatorium also offers a variety of classes that you can take such as cycling, yoga and strength and conditioning classes.

Play a sport

Playing a sport is an amazing way to get moving, and you won’t even realize you are getting a great workout. Sports are a great way to exercise with friends and experience some healthy competition. Grab a few friends and play a pickup game of basketball or volleyball in the gym. If you want to enjoy fresh air, try a football game or go ice skating on the lake.

Download an App

There are many apps you can download to help you exercise. If you are unsure what to do when you get to the gym or you are too lazy to leave your room, just use one of the workouts the app provides you. A great app to try is Aaptiv, which gives you audio workout classes and you can listen to the trainer telling you what to do while at the gym or at home. Another useful app is Sworkit, which provides ab and core exercises for you to complete. You can also download a 30-day fitness challenge app where you do an exercise, such as abs or squats, everyday for 30 days.