Hi everyone! I know it’s been a long time since I’ve written. It’s been a killer winter here in NYC and I’ve been busy trying to entertain my kids while we’ve been snowbound! We’ve been busy doing lots of crafts, games, movies, and cooking. One of the biggest challenges I’m having this winter is exercise.

I must admit, I haven’t had much motivation. I could easily get up an hour earlier and drag my sleepy butt to the gym, but when it’s dark and cold most days it’s not happening.

I know a few of my friends/clients out there are struggling with how to fit in some exercise during this long, cold winter. I will say that I’ve broadened my expectations beyond “getting to the gym” so that I’ve been working out more at home and while running errands. Honestly, you can get a great workout in right at home with almost no equipment! Here are a few ideas:

Walking: I read or heard somewhere that the average New Yorker walks 5 miles per day. Some days I swear I walk more like 20 miles! If you live in a city this is a great way to get some exercise. Walking is aerobic, low impact and studies have shown that it’s an effective way to stay in shape. Recently a study was done that showed that walking increases memory! If you don’t live in a city you could still bundle up (or not if you are lucky enough to live somewhere warm), grab a buddy and go for a walk. No matter how cold it is outside, walking briskly will keep you warm. Just be sure to wear weather appropriate footwear if it’s wet or snowy and dress in layers!

Rebounding: “Rebounding” is another word for simply jumping on a small trampoline. I have one in my apartment and my kids use it just as much as I do. I don’t mind of course since we’ve been inside a lot this winter, and it gives them a chance to burn some energy as well. It’s great for toning muscles and circulation without being high impact. Plus, it’s fun, I can do it at home, and it’s relatively quiet so I can do it early in the morning or in the evening. That really works for my schedule!

Strength training: A short body-weight strength training circuit is a great way to work your muscles at home. Squats, lunges, pushups, bridges, tricep dips are all great exercises that can be done without any extra equipment. A great way to do a quick fun workout is to put on some great music that motivates you, and pick 3 or 4 exercises. Then do them in a rotation 3 times around for about 10-15 repetitions each set. This is another great idea for doing with a buddy or even a small group of people. If you have access to a gym you could do this as a way to focus your workout and get it done more efficiently. I like to do this type of workout to strengthen my knees for running, but I don’t love spending more than 30 minutes at a time in the gym!

Yoga: One of the things I love about yoga is that all you really need is yourself and a mat. And it’s a great way to quiet your mind, breathe deeply and just be present with your thoughts. I find that a little yoga every day (even if it’s only for 5 or 10 minutes) is better than a long practice once or twice per week. I often tell my clients it’s sort of like brushing your teeth, (hopefully something you find the time to do no matter what!) in that it works better doing it each day rather than for an hour once per week. (yikes!) If you’re a beginner (or advanced) check out yogaglo.com for classes you can stream online.

Pilates: Pilates is a great combination of stretching and strengthening and can also be done anywhere. I always feel so invigorated and flexible after just a 10 or 15 minute workout. A strong core is so important for a healthy body. Start slow if you are a beginner and please don’t give up! I know some of the exercises feel strange at first but they will get easier. Click here to purchase my Pilates workout download. (It’s designed for all levels from beginner to advanced, and even has a quick “on the go” workout!)

Bottom line is: pick something you like and get doing it! You’ll thank yourself later (at least at the end of the day!) Start slow, and remember it doesn’t have to be for a long time. Every little bit counts. Good luck!

Danielle