How to Stay Active & Burn Calories When It’s Cold Outside

Nov 20 2024
Don’t let yourself get too stagnant this winter! Sure, it may be cold and damp outside, but we’re sharing some sneaky ways to get extra movement into your day (and burn extra calories while you’re at). Move more, feel great…

Budget-friendly beauty alert! Keep reading after the tips for an exclusive offer on some HG favorites: Get ‘em for as little as $4.14 each!



Get into housewalking.

It’s literally the easiest way to move more—the point is to keep walking around instead of staying still. Talking on the phone? Walk around, even if you’re just pacing back and forth by your desk during a work call. Scrolling on social media? Keep it moving! Even just standing is better than sitting. On a related note…



Use commercial breaks as movement cues.

Ad breaks during your favorite TV shows are great timed-out little segments for squeaking in 1:30 minutes of jogging in place, getting in a stretch, etc. Bonus tip: Keep sneakers in sight, so you’ll feel less of a hurdle when it comes to adding impromptu exercise.



Move like you're running late.

Don’t stress yourself out unnecessarily—this is more about moving with purpose vs. meandering, strolling, lollygagging, etc. It’ll help get your blood moving, and you’ll reap the added bonus of getting things done faster.



Plan movement-based social activities.

Instead of meeting for coffee or catching a movie, go for a walk with a friend. (Bundle up or mall walk!) Or how about bowling, escape rooms, mini golf, and museums? They aren’t gonna make you sweat, but any movement is better than no movement.



Take the long route.

We love shortcuts in the kitchen, but if you wanna move more, don’t take the shortest path between points A and B. Park farther from where you’re going, take a lap around the store even if you’re only picking up a couple things, take the stairs instead of the elevator… There are plenty of ways to do this!



Set an alarm for walking breaks.

Whether you’re working in an office or from home, it’s common to find yourself sitting for long periods of time. Many smartwatches have settings to remind you to get up when you’ve been sitting for too long. Even better, set an hourly alarm to remind you to get up and move.



Spiff up your space.

Sittin’ around? Take a little time to tidy up and return things to their rightful places; then explore ways to improve your home setting! Organize your pantry, hit up Home Goods for budget-friendly décor, or grab a buddy and rearrange your furniture.



Listen to upbeat music.

In the words of Gloria Estefan, the rhythm is gonna get ya. Put on tunes with a serious beat, and chances are you’ll find yourself instinctually moving about with a bit more pep. Or lean all the way in and take a dance break, whether or not anyone’s watching!



Chew on this:

Do you know that November is National Pepper Month? Blend roasted red peppers, canned tomatoes, and more simple ingredients to make this simple veggie-based bisque with 66 calories per cup!

Help your friends stay active when it’s cold outside too. Pass along this info and show them how!

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