When the temperature drops during winter months, it is easy to say goodbye to the runners and hello to a warm dressing gown. Finding the motivation to maintain a fitness routine can be difficult, but staying active is important for your physical health as well as your mental wellbeing.

There are a number of ways to keep motivated and moving this winter:
 
Start a walking group with friends
Sometimes staying active can be made easier with a friend by your side. Commit to meeting at a central point a few times each week. Try to change locations frequently to keep your walk interesting.

Take up a sport
Partner or team sports, such as basketball, bowling, tennis and dancing, are a great way to ramp up your fitness in the winter. And by joining a team, you are making a commitment to other people, and yourself, for the season.

Incidental exercise
Walk or cycle everywhere you are able to. If the distance seems too far on foot, get off the tram, train or bus a few stops earlier and walk a portion of the distance.
 
Yoga or pilates at home
Sometimes, half the battle of exercising during winter is having to leave the warmth of your house. You can buy a yoga and pilates DVD, borrow a copy from the library or download a session. Roll out a mat on your lounge room floor, select your preferred workout and start stretching.

Indoor swimming
Swimming is a great form of gentle exercise that helps to alleviate stress and build strength. The added benefit is that swimming isn’t weather-dependent, so you can do it any time of the year.