It’s easy to fall into a hibernation during those winter months of snow, sleet and cold. As the temperature drops, it can be harder to exercise—but with the right winter workout plan, you can still find the motivation to get fit. After all, summer bodies are made in the winter, right?

The key to getting out in the cold is pursuing activities or workouts that appeal to you. If you love what you do, you’ll find that it’s not that hard to stay encouraged and stick to your workout goals in the winter.

Here’s our winter workout guide to staying fit and healthy in Columbus!

Ice Skating

The good thing about ice skating is that it can be done indoors or outside on a frozen pond. Getting active on the ice can be fun and an excellent form of exercise—as skating works nearly every muscle group in the body, and gliding requires synchronized movement of the legs. Like any workout, skating is good for your cardiovascular health and it gets the blood pumping! There are plenty of ice skating rinks in Columbus to enjoy, like OhioHealth’s Ice Haus and three Chiller rinks.

Athletic Club

Joining a Columbus gym like the Arena District Athletic Club (ADAC) makes working out season averse. With the ability to bypass weather conditions entirely, the ADAC offers both one-on-one and group training sessions, private yoga instruction and world-class equipment. If you’re looking for something more intense, fitCAMP offers a 4-week, 16-session high intensity training program that will get your body in tip-top shape for summer.

Finding a workout class that you enjoy will make staying active in the winter easier and enjoyable. Located right in the heart of downtown Columbus’ Arena District, ADAC is the perfect place to start (or end) your day.

Hiking

Hiking during the winter is worth the extra layers—seriously. The trails are less crowded and calmer this time of year, allowing you to fully enjoy the outdoor experience. Whether it’s dry and cold or wet and snowy, the winter scenery is wholly unique. Grab your coat and a friend to explore Columbus Metro Parks, or join their annual winter hike series for guided public group outings.

Pilates

The winter season is a great time to experience the addicting joys of Pilates—the art of controlled movements! One of the best places in Columbus to take classes is Club Pilates in Grandview Yard. No matter your age or level of fitness, there’s a class that will work for you. Try it out and keep your body agile and flexible through the chilly weather.

Get Inspired

If you still need an extra kick of fitness inspiration, you’ll absolutely find it when the Arnold Sports Festival & EXPO returns to Columbus from March 5-8! More than 20K athletes from around the world will compete in 80+ events that test the limits of physical strength and endurance. Aside from attending as a spectator, there are tons of ways you can get active and participate.

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What winter workouts keep you active in Columbus?