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It’s a fact that many of us tend to exercise less in the colder winter months. In the midst of frosty, chilly weather it can be difficult to get motivated when you just want to cuddle up with a good book or movie in front of a warm fireplace. But on your journey to becoming a healthier you, it is important to stay active through all four seasons and you have all the incentive you need to keep your body in motion. Here are eight exercise tips for those colder days, or any day of the year:

1. Take up mall walking. The mall can be a fun place to get a workout. It’s best to arrive at the mall early before the traffic gets heavy. Step it up a bit and go up and down the stairs a few times. Don’t forget to take your pedometer!

2. Lose weight the gaming way. Wii Fit and Dancetown are just a couple of games that can help you to lose weight. The Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport found that the average heart rate during a video game session was similar to the heart rate during strength training. Make sure you use your entire body in the games to burn the most calories.

3. Tear up the treadmill! Take a long walk or light jog from the comfort of your home. Add a little entertainment to your treadmill routine by watching your favorite TV show or a movie. Some treadmills come equipped with video maps in which you can plug-in a trail or road to simulate the terrain. You can enjoy the scenery and create a new destination for each walk.

4. Join a Pilates, spinning, yoga, or aerobics class. Many gyms offer seasonal or monthly memberships. Your local YMCA or even college fitness centers sometimes allow non-members to sign up for classes without purchasing a membership. This is also a great way to meet new people.

5. Burn calories while performing household chores. Got snow? Get out there with your shovel and toss the snow and ice away. For those of you lucky enough to live where snow is a rare occurrence, sweep and mop your floors and don’t hesitate to add a few dance moves along the way.

6. Conquer stationary cycling. Pushing those pedals help you to maintain healthy cardiovascular fitness and strengthens your hips and knees. Break up the boredom by listening to your favorite songs on your iPod or CD player. There are also some great apps out there that take you on a scenic ride. You can navigate the Grand Canyon, visit the red rocks in Sedona, AZ, or cycle away and take a tour of your choice.

7. Rally your routine with resistance bands. Resistance bands are great for all fitness levels. Resistance training helps you to build lean muscle mass, which fights fat. The great thing about this form of exercise is that you can purchase inexpensive and effective bands. Another plus is that the bands are convenient items you can pack away in your suitcase should you be traveling. Resistance bands usually come with an instruction DVD or book that include tips on how to perform various resistance band exercises.

8. Roll out of bed and press play! Dance and exercise to a home workout DVD. To save a little money, you can purchase used DVD’s online or perhaps find copies at your local Goodwill or garage sale.

You don’t have to put exercise on the back burner due to less than favorable weather conditions. That cozy fireplace will still be there when you have accomplished a little calorie burning. Embrace the season and continue to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Your spring and summer body will thank you!

In which ways do you embrace the colder seasons and continue on a healthy fitness regiment? Share your tips below!