While in New England, we may think of the long winter months as an unfortunate "bulking season." A time when we can't get the heck out of the house/apartment, the gyms are too packed to get a good workout in, and the holidays force extra weight in every area we want to avoid.
There is hope—I'm here to tell you a few awesome alternatives to a great workout, other than just a run on the treadmill every once in a while.
1. Bikram Yoga
Bikram Yoga (otherwise known as hot yoga) is one of the best heated workouts a female can do for her body. No matter what age, size or ability, you can do hot yoga and get its extraordinary benefits. Those who are devoted to the practice say hot yoga has all kinds of benefits. The one that’s touted most often is detoxification: heavy sweating is said to help flush toxins from the skin. The heat also allows you to go a little more deeply and safely into the postures. Bikram yoga is a 90-minute, 105-degree period of centrality and focus, and a major calorie burner.
2. Biking
Running or walking on a treadmill can get a little boring or you can get too tired, too fast. Bike riding, or cycling, is a more relaxing way to pump up your legs and heart rate. You don't have to log thousands of miles to gain rewards from riding a bike more and driving your car less. Bike riding lets you add a fitness activity into your day even when you think you don't have time for a workout. Plus let's face it—there's usually more bikes available at the gym than there are treadmills.
3. Ice Skating
Of course, you don’t always need a frozen lake to enjoy ice skating, as many major cities have indoor ice skating rinks that allow you to enjoy the activity. You improve your balance, joint flexibility, endurance, mental fitness and it's fun!
4. Zumba classes
Who doesn't love to dance it out? Zumba classes are fun, energetic, and a great confidence booster. At its core, Zumba classes provide a large calorie burn through aerobic activity done with interval training in mind. The average person will burn around 600 to 1,000 calories in a class. So why not, right?
5. CrossFit
Not for everyone, but definitely great to try! CrossFit blasts calories, conditions the heart, increases joint mobility, and it makes you feel like a badass. CrossFit gyms are fun places to make friends and find motivation. You'll work up a great sweat while working out to pump up music and you can yell as loud as you want to.
So don't let the frozen winter months stop you! There's plenty of ways to squeeze in a great workout, and keep up your beautiful self. Bikini season is right around the corner.
