6 winter activities to fall in love with

With winter in full swing, bringing slushy streets and sub-zero temperatures, it's tempting to forgo outdoor exercise in favour of some quality time curled up on the couch with the remote control. But, with so many seasonal activities available, now is the perfect time to get moving and add something new to your workout routine – or rekindle your love of an old favourite.

According to Canada's Physical Activity Guide adults should be accumulating between 30 and 60 minutes of moderate physical exercise daily – and that doesn't change during the winter months. So if you feel like you've been spending more time moping than moving, it's time to get outside and get active. Not only will the physical activity boost your spirits, but being outdoors is also a great way to up your vitamin D intake and stay healthy and alert.

Here are six family-friendly ways to get active and beat those winter fitness blahs.

Before you start, remember to check weather reports and dress accordingly, and take five or 10 minutes to do a warm-up beforehand to get your heart rate up and muscles ready for some activity.

Tobogganing
Remember those days when you were coasting down the neighbourhood hill, and then dreading the epic trudge back to the top with your sled in tow? It's time to get back out there with the kids and relive those childhood memories, because, as it turns out, tobogganing is the perfect winter whole body workout, targeting the glutes and quads in particular. 

Calories burned per hour: 400

Skating
Whether it's at the local arena, or on a frozen pond, ice skating is a fun way for people of all ages to get active during the winter months. By doing some laps at a moderate pace, you can give yourself a good cardio workout, and strengthen your abs, calves, glutes and quads.  And, by swinging your arms while you skate, you can tone your shoulders and arms as well.

Calories burned per hour: 300

Hiking
A winter hike with the kids is a great way to get some fresh air, and sunshine while exploring a local nature trail. Spend the afternoon searching for animal tracks in the snow, bring a digital camera to capture scenery and wildlife, and finish up the day with a thermos of hot chocolate. Though not as aerobic  as some workouts, you still work your quads, glutes, calves, and hamstrings.

Calories burned per hour: 400

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