Winter is a beautiful season that invites us to slow down and be still. We find ourselves inside more often, in the dark more regularly, and yearning for comfort in the form of warm blankets and warm food. Winter can be a beautiful time of rest.
But sometimes we get antsy. Our kids do too. We need rest, but we also need movement.
And it can feel hard to come by in the winter months.
Bundling up, bundling your kids up, and braving the elements isn’t always appealing. Driving to the gym feels even more impossible than it did in the fall. Everyone is feeling stir crazy, but how in the world do you exercise when there’s three feet of snow outside your door?
I’m glad you asked!
Today I want to share with you 12 ways to be active in the winter months. These are divided into three sections depending on what you feel up to that day: indoor activities, outdoor activities, and activities you probably will need to drive to.
I hope this list fosters some inspiration!
12 Winter Activities
Indoor Activities
1. Run Around Your House
Running around your house feels too simple, and yet it is the easiest way for you and your toddler to get some exercise. You don’t need any money, a vehicle, or even a winter coat. Just run around. Your toddler will love it!
2. At-Home Workout
Doing an at-home workout is another easy way to get your heart rate up, build muscle, and improve your outlook. You can also include your toddler in this if they are interested!
There are countless workout videos online, but I have included a printable one below if you would like to try. It’s a full-body, strength and cardio workout. You’ll need a set of dumbbells or soup cans for weights, and it should only take you a few minutes to complete.
3. Buy a Rebounder
A rebounder is like a mini, indoor trampoline on which you and your toddler can burn some energy! It can also be a great workout device!
Here is a link to purchase one on Amazon!
Outdoor Activities
4. Winter Trudge
Bundle those babies up and go on a walk! It may be cold and snowy. It may take you longer to get coats on than the time you’ll actually be outside. But it’s worth it!
Trudge through that snow. You won’t regret that you did!
5. Hike
If you are up for something a little more adventurous, go on a winter hike! Strap your baby in a carrier. Bring some good snacks for your toddler. Bring Dad or a friend along for extra support. What a great outing this could be!
6. Sledding
Put your kids in a sled, and pull them around. Let them play with the sled themselves! If they’re a little older, bring them to a hill where they can sled down themselves! They’ll have fun, and when it comes time to pull that sled back up the slopes, they’ll get some good exercise!
7. Snowball Fight
Make some snowballs, and go to town! Chase each other. Play hide and seek. Be silly with your child. You’ll both enjoy it!
Drive-To Activities
8. Skating
Find a rink or pond in your area, and look up when they have public skating. Begin teaching your kids to skate, or let them ride around in a stroller or sled. Savor the moment, and get some exercise!
9. Indoor Play Place
Most cities have indoor play places. Think trampoline park, jungle gym, or indoor playground. Let your kids run and get the beans out. You could even invite another family to meet you there!
10. Indoor Play Group
Gymnasiums might offer play groups where toddlers can run around. Scooters, soccer balls, and big foamies make for a grand old time. You kids will love it, and you might just meet some new friends!
11. Mall Walks
Walking the mall is a great way to get exercise! Grab a coffee and snack for the kids. Meander with a friend. There may even be some kid-friendly displays or a library near at hand! What fun!
12. Swimming
If you like to swim, why not try it out with your kids? If you have more than one child, consider taking another adult to help. They can be an extra set of eyes, and you can all splash and play. This is a great way for all of you to burn some energy!
So there you have it! 12 ways you and your toddler can get exercise this winter. I know it might feel like it takes extra effort, the payoff is well worth it.
Remember that you don’t have to do all the things. If one day you only have the energy to walk around the yard, that’s great! If you’re feeling more ambitious another day and want to try skating, terrific!
The pressure’s off. Do what you can do, and have fun with your kids!
FAQ about Winter Exercise
1. What if it takes twice the time to bundle up as we can be outside in the cold?
This is often the case in the winter! It feels like a hassle. But the physical and mental benefits of being outside are worth it! I encourage you to take the time. Try to see getting ready as part of the activity, not just preparation for it! Maybe that will help!
2. What are your tips for bringing a baby outside with a toddler?
First, find a good baby snowsuit. This makes it SO much easier to get them ready quickly. Rather than needing so many layers, they can just wear this and whatever else they need to supplement it.
Second, put them in a heavy duty stroller! If you are going for a walk or even just playing outside with your toddler, feel free to pop that baby in the stroller with a blanket. They may just fall asleep.
Third, use a baby carrier! Again, this frees up your hands and may just put them to sleep for a good, cozy nap.
Fourth, remember it’s okay to make things short and sweet. It’s okay to bring your toddler in if baby needs to feed or is cold. Try to get out, and don’t stress if it can’t be a long outing.
3. What are some other good home workouts?
I love doing workout videos! Here is a great channel to get you started!
Also, I have a few other home workouts on my blog! Here are the links to those!
No Equipment Workout – Thankful Little Mama
At Home Total Body Workout (with dumbbells) – Thankful Little Mama
Five 5-Minute Workouts (for busy moms) – Thankful Little Mama
Leave a Reply