In these cold winter months, it’s easy to become bored with your normal workout routine. The chilly weather keeps people from being able to exercise outside, which limits the activities they can do; making workouts become mundane and predictable. However, there are many ways to spice up a workout routine until the warmer weather rolls into town.

First off, see if the local gym has exercise classes, such as a spin or aerobics class. By attending these classes, you are not only getting a good workout in with a trained instructor, but you are also being encouraged by the people around you in the class. By having this encouragement, it makes shedding those pounds in the dreary months a little more bearable.

Also, switch up your cardio. If you tend to run or bike when the weather is nice, try swimming instead. You can also do other indoor activities such as racquetball or indoor rock climbing. Changing up your cardio is a great way to build up different muscles along with keeping your workout more enjoyable.

Another great way to stay motivated during the winter is to try out some workout DVD’s in the comfort of your own home. This way, you don’t even have to step outside in order to break a sweat. From Jillian Michaels to Denise Austin, there are a wide variety of options to choose from.

Lastly, try something that you’ve never done before, such as a dance class, martial arts, horseback riding lessons or netball; even skiing on the slopes can build up a sweat. Although these activities may not be at the top of your workout list normally, they can be something fun to try while the temperature continues to drop.

One last tip for winter workouts, don’t give up! The weather will clear and warm up eventually; you just have to keep busy until then. If you stay motivated during the winter months, it will make working out in the spring so much easier and more enjoyable. So take heart and ride out these cold days, because before you know it, it’s going to be swimsuit season.