Becoming isn’t about arriving somewhere or achieving a certain aim. I see it instead as a forward motion, a means of evolving, a way to reach continuously toward a better self. The journey doesn’t end.

Michelle Obama

Who says we have to become hermits when temperatures drop? Canadian winters can start early and linger for months, wrecking havoc on our fitness regimes; so let’s embrace the uncertainty in our ever-changing climate and find endless variety if fighting boredom sets in.

Get outside – There is nothing like winter’s crisp air to feel alive; if taking your fitness outside, remember to dress for the variable occasion.

Gear up inside – For those wintry days when it’s just possibly too stormy or the windshield may run you at risk for long periods of time, create a mini gym at home (a mat and a few hand weights is all you need); virtual fitness options have exploded in recent years, so find a video online for inspiration and to mix it up.

Revamp for shorter days – When mornings and evenings are too dark for getting outside, take advantage of getting out at lunchtime if possible; dark evenings can be tough, so frontload your regime when morning light hits if you can.

Group exercise – If weekday evenings and dark early mornings are your only available times to be outside, take advantage of group training – local run clubs, walking groups, or recruit friends and family to join you safely outdoors.

And finally, make the most of winter weekends! Do what you love (hiking, skiing, skating, or snowshoeing) this time of year, be it finding solace alone on long walks or cross-country skiing a new route with others, this season is filled with possibilities!