Just because temperatures aren’t tropical doesn’t mean you can’t get your regular dose of exercise and the outdoors. Here are 6 easy and cheap ways my husband and I enjoy the outdoors in winter:

Go tobogganing. Who doesn’t like to feel like a kid again? Grab a cheap toboggan from your local store and start rocketing down the hill. It is so much fun and a real stress reliever. Nothing feels better after a long week then whipping down a snow hill screaming and waving your hands in the air.

Go cross country skiing: Cross country skiing is something the whole family can enjoy. In fact, we often go with my in-laws and have a great visit. It is such a peaceful and enjoyable thing to do. Plus it is fantastic exercise. You can burn over 600 calories an hour doing this sport. Most places rent skiis for as little as $10 a day so set a date and make a day out that the whole family can enjoy.

Skating: Skating is also something that the whole family can enjoy. In many places, local parks flood their ponds so that the neighbourhood can skate on them for free. The only thing stopping you from enjoying gliding on the ice is a pair of skates right? Well, don’t fret; many places sell used skates for cheap, so go and get yourself a pair and get on that rink.

Get shoveling: We live in the northern hemisphere so we have gotten creative with our winter chores. Think of shoveling as an alternative to your regular workout. Just remember to lift and bend your legs, don’t hunch over on your back. Take turns shoveling or make a challenge of it. Whoever gets finished their path first wins and gets a reward (you can determine what that reward is).

Take a stroll through nature: Pack a backpack lunch and head to your local greenspace and just walk slowly, taking in the air and nature around you. If you actually pause long enough, it can be a very invigorating experience. There are so many beautiful things around us on a daily basis that we often take forgranted and fail to notice. You might just be surprised what you get to see and hear.

Play in the snow: Start a snowball fight in the yard or help the kids build a snowman. Get out there and enjoy the white stuff and all the things you can do with it. If you want to chill out on an afternoon, plop down and make a snow angel while staring at the sky and take in a moment of peace.

You see, winter really isn’t that bad. It actually can be a lot of fun and the best part is, you don’t have to spend a ton of money enjoying it. So instead of sitting indoors watching the TV or reading my blog (lol), get outside and start enjoying the outdoors. Your body and mind will thank you.