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January is officially Family Fit Lifestyle Month and even though January is nearly over, you can still take part.  But winter workouts are often a challenge for people. Being based at the University of Vermont, where snow and ice abound this time of year,  Vtrim understands the challenges of exercising in the cold winter months. But we encourage you to brave the snow and cold and get active outside.  And  what better way to get fit than with the entire family?  Here are five of our favorite active winter activities that can be enjoyed by both you and the kids.

Photo source: http://www.everydayhealth.com

1) Downhill skiing and snowboarding:  Hitting the slopes is a great way to get fit with the family.  Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned expert, skiing and snowboarding are a major workout (don’t forget your helmets).  If you haven’t been before, try taking a lesson with the entire family or stick to the easy trails while you get a feel for it.  If money is a factor then try to find a family rental package and family ski pass.

2) Sledding:  This activity doesn’t just have to be fun for the kids.  Sledding is a rush for all ages and trekking back up the hill will definitely get you to work up a sweat despite the cold.

3) Snowshoeing: Feet upon feet of fresh snow is no reason not to get outside and participate in an active family outing.  Snowshoeing is a fun way to take in nature while getting a great workout in at the same time.  Just like skis, snowshoes can be rented and come in small sizes so the kids can enjoy this activity too.  Unlike downhill skiing, this is an activity that you can enjoy just about anywhere there is snow.

4) Cross-country skiing:  If downhill just isn’t for you, cross-country skiing could be the perfect fit for you and your family.  Save some money on a ski pass by skiing in a local park or even a golf course.  This activity is a bit easier to pick up than downhill skiing and, just like snowshoeing, it is a great way to take in the sights.

5) Ice skating: Whether it’s on a frozen pond or at your local skating rink, this activity is fun for the entire family.  Skating can be a challenge if it’s your first time, and again, helmets are a good idea.  Also, many public skating rinks have milk crates or other devices to help you keep your balance until you get the hang of it.

Remember, you don’t have to limit yourself to these five activities.  The important thing is to get outside during the winter and participate in any activity that keeps you fit and that the whole family can enjoy. Have some ideas of your own for family fitness in the winter? We’d love to hear your favorites, too!

Thoughts of the holidays invoke visions of relaxing family time, tables filled with good food and drink, and quiet evenings by the fireside.  Unfortunately for most of us, this tranquil image is far from reality.  The holidays tend to be some of the busiest days of the year and between shopping, cooking, and traveling there is little time for anything else.  This often means exercise gets thrown to the wayside. But don’t let the craziness of the holidays be an excuse to shirk on your fitness routine.

One of the best ways to fit fitness into the holidays is to take full advantage of the numerous errands you will undoubtedly be running.  To start with, park as far from the entrance to the mall or store as possible. Before you start shopping, walk around the perimeter of the mall once or twice. Those extra steps might not seem like much, but they will add up and you can enjoy a little window shopping at the same time.  Another great way to take advantage of those shopping outings is to carry your own bags back to the car.  It can be tempting to dump everything in a cart, but carrying bags can be a great way to tone your arms, especially if you sneak in a few bicep curls.

Because the holidays truly are supposed to be about spending time with the family, get your entire family involved in being active.  Go out for a family walk or bike ride if the weather is nice enough.  One of my favorite activities is to go for a walk at night with the family to take in the neighbors’ Christmas lights and decorations.  This way you can get in that quality family time and squeeze in some fitness activity at the same time.

Having relatives over for the holidays tends to push us into cleaning overdrive.  Though this may seem like a mundane task, try turning it into a mini workout.  Play some holiday music to dance around to as you clean.  You might be surprised at the sweat you can work up if you clean with a vengeance.

Do you have any favorite holiday activities that allow you to stay fit through the holidays? We’d love to hear them!