20 Ways to Stay Active During Winter in Chicago

20 Ways to Stay Active During Winter in Chicago

For most of us, it can be hard to stay active during winter. The cold weather and winter weather drive us indoors, and all we want to do is stay warm seven days a week. This increases the risk of a sedentary lifestyle. However, regular physical activity, even during the winter months, is vital for your health. If you're going to stay fit, your body needs regular exercise. If you're wondering how to stay active during winter, you've come to the right place.  

Here at Chicago Athletic Clubs, we are dedicated to making your fitness journey successful. That's why we've created this list of 20 ways to stay active during winter here in Chicago.

Reasons To Stay Active During Winter 

There are so many reasons to stay active in the winter months. The health benefits alone make moderate intensity aerobic exercise like walking or running a true no-brainer. Let's look at some of the many reasons why it's important to find ways to get up and move your body even during this challenging time of cold and flu season.

1. Boost Your Mood 

Have you ever noticed that it can be harder to keep a positive attitude when the days get shorter and the weather turns colder? If so, you’ve likely had to deal with some degree of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In their summary of this condition, the Mayo Clinic specifically highlights “increasing physical activity” and maintaining a regular exercise routine as options for treating it. Even if you do not have this condition specifically, physical activity is an excellent way to boost energy levels and combat depression and anxiety.

2. Maintain A Healthy Weight 

You may decide to stop exercising in the winter, but you won’t stop eating. Your weight directly correlates to your calorie intake-to-burn ratio. To maintain your current weight, you would need to consume less food during the winter months when you are inactive.  

In reality, however, our bodies tend to want to consume more calories as a response to the colder temperatures. Plus, the holidays, with all the delicious food they bring, are rarely a time for dieting. The best strategy for maintaining a healthy weight is sticking to a regular exercise routine, even in the winter months. 

3. Strengthen Your Immune System 

Exercise increases the flow of your red and white blood cells throughout your body, thus boosting the circulation of your immune cells. This, in turn, strengthens your immune system. Having a robust immune system is critical during cold and flu season when so many diseases like the flu or COVID-19 can wreak havoc with your best-laid holiday plans.

4. Fight Insulin Resistance 

Eating those gingerbread cookies may be fun, but if you are dealing with insulin resistance, it can become an even bigger challenge in winter. Fortunately, several studies have shown that moderate intensity aerobic exercise can reverse the effects of insulin resistance. Reducing body fat increases cellular insulin sensitivity and can help to fight insulin resistance.

5. Gets You Summer-Bod Ready 

Winter’s not going to last forever. The last thing you want is to realize you need to do some exercising before you can put that swimsuit on again. Stay active to boost your cardiovascular fitness and ensure that when the warmer weather comes, you’re ready to get out there and have fun with your friends.

Stay Active In The Gym 

To start our winter activities list, we will look at 10 indoor activities you can do in the gym or health club to keep your body moving.

1. Water Aerobics or Swimming Classes 

Water aerobics classes at an indoor pool can be a great way to exercise indoors during winter, as they provide a low-impact great workout that’s easy on the joints while also keeping the body warm. Available at most gyms with pools, these classes are perfect for all fitness levels.

2. Cycling Classes 

Cycling classes in the gym are a great winter-time activity, and group classes can provide an energetic and motivating environment to help you keep up your fitness goals. They’re also excellent for improving cardiovascular fitness.

3. Strength Training Classes 

Strength training classes are another smart way to remain physically active because they help to build muscle strength, strengthen bones, and improve overall physical fitness, even if it’s just for 30 minutes a day.

4. HIIT Class 

HIIT classes can provide a great workout for staying active in winter. They offer a high-intensity, full-body workout that can be completed in a short amount of time, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule. 

5. Cardio Classes or Equipment 

The health benefits of taking cardio classes or using cardio equipment include improved cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, increased metabolism, and reduced risk of heart disease.

6. Dance Fitness 

Dance fitness is a type of group exercise that combines dance and aerobic movements to improve cardiovascular fitness, coordination, and overall fitness. It’s a fun way to stay motivated during winter.

7. Yoga Classes 

Yoga classes are a great way to stay active during winter, as they offer a low-impact workout that can help improve flexibility, balance, and mental health. Pairing yoga with deep breathing can also help regulate body temperature in colder environments.

8. Pilates Classes 

Pilates classes focus on strengthening the core, improving posture, and building muscle strength. They’re ideal for older adults or anyone looking to maintain mobility during the winter months.

9. Personal Training 

Personal training involves working with a certified fitness professional to design a customized program tailored to your fitness goals. The benefits include personalized attention, accountability, staying motivated, and faster progress. Schedule your exercise time with a trainer to maximize results.

10. Boxing or Kickboxing 

Boxing or kickboxing is a high-intensity workout that improves cardiovascular fitness, builds strength, and enhances coordination. Grab a workout buddy to make sessions more fun!

Stay Active Anywhere 

Although the gym can be a great place to socialize, you can also stay active outdoors. Outdoor activities during daylight hours are possible if you dress appropriately and take extra precautions, especially if you’re at higher risk due to age or health conditions.

1. Ice Skating 

The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millenium Park opens on November 17 and is a great way to socialize and get exercise. Just make sure to bundle up, stay hydrated, and take extra precautions to stay safe in the winter weather.

2. Running or Walking Through Chicago 

Grab a workout buddy and explore Chicago’s many paths and trails. Park your car farther away to add extra steps to your routine. If you don’t mind the cold, go for it!

3. Snowball Fights 

Snowball fights are an awesome way to enjoy the snow while getting a great workout. Throwing snowballs works your upper body and keeps your energy high.

4. Sledding 

Sledding is a fun, low-impact outdoor activity that boosts cardiovascular fitness. Head to Cricket Hill in Lincoln Park for a thrilling ride!

5. Geocaching 

Geocaching combines adventure with physical activity. Use GPS to hunt for hidden treasures, and park your car farther to extend your walk. Check local spots in the Chicago area for this fun challenge.

6. Snowshoeing 

Snowshoeing is a low-impact workout that improves endurance and balance. It’s perfect for all ages, including older adults, and lets you explore Chicago’s parks.

7. Winter Bird Watching 

Winter bird watching gets you outside during daylight hours and connects you with nature. The Illinois Audubon Society recommends top spots for this calming activity.

8. Ice Fishing 

Ice fishing on frozen lakes like those in Lake County strengthens muscles and requires physical activity. Remember to drink water and dress appropriately to maintain body temperature.

9. Outdoor Yoga 

Practice yoga in parks or beaches to reduce stress and improve vitality. Layer up to dress appropriately for the cold weather.

10. Winter Sports 

Skiing or snowboarding are exhilarating ways to stay fit and maintain a healthy weight. These activities also reduce the risk of seasonal mood slumps.

Stay Active This Winter With Chicago Athletic Clubs 

Well, there you have it—20 ways to winter staying active in Chicago. Although you could stay home and avoid the cold, that’s a sure path to becoming a couch potato. Why not hit your local gym? Chicago Athletic Clubs offers everything you need to stay motivated, from pools to strength training zones. Let us help you maintain good health and crush your fitness goals this season. 

Learn more here!