Get Fit with Winter Chores and Fun

As the cold and dark of winter sets in, it can be easy to succumb to inactivity. Many people gain anywhere from 5-15 pounds each year during winter. Over a span of even 5-10 years, that can really add up. But the health benefits from increased activity don’t end with a smaller waistline. An active lifestyle also contributes to stronger muscles and bones, a more effective immune system, better cardiovascular health, and even a more positive outlook on life.

If you can’t afford to join a gym, or find traditional workouts boring, there are still plenty of ways to get moving over the winter. Outdoor sports, and even winter chores, can be a great way to stay in shape during colder months. The added weight of coats, long underwear and heavy boots can even enhance the effectiveness of your workout.

Here’s a quick look at the average number of calories burned by just a few common winter activities*:

Winter Chores:
Baking (using manual appliances) – 145
Chopping wood – 430
Ice scraping – 240
Shopping – 155
Shoveling snow – 430
Stacking wood – 360
Using a push snow blower – 320

Winter Sports:
Cross-country skiing – 510
Downhill skiing – 375
Ice fishing – 135
Ice-skating – 425
Sledding – 475
Snowboarding – 430
Snowshoeing – 545

*Estimates are based on the number of calories burned per hour by a 150-pound person. Actual calories burned depends on weight, metabolism, and how vigorously the activity is performed.