Cold Weather Workouts

We all know that exercise is important for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but cold weather can make it challenging to be active.

Whitney Thorton, MS, RD, LDN, of Le Bonheur Community Health and Well-Being, says that children should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity everyday, according to the American Heart Association.

"Being physically active can provide overall physical, psychological and social benefits. Exercise can reduce your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and even some cancers, as well as lowering blood pressure, controlling weight and increasing self-confidence and self- esteem," says Thorton.

She says there are several ways children can get exercise without going outdoors.

One idea she suggests is finding an indoor facility - like a local community center or school - with an indoor swimming pool or basketball court. These places are often accessible to the public for little or no cost.

"Find out what gets your child excited about being active," says Thorton. Enroll him or her in a group class, such as gymnastics, dance or martial arts.

Also, when it's too cold to walk outside, take your family to the nearest mall or museum for a brisk walk. Using stairs instead of escalators is a great way to burn extra calories.

You don't even have to leave the house to exercise, Thorton says. Dancing is a great form of exercise, and it's fun, too. Encourage your child to pick the music, turn up the volume and have a family dance party.

"It's important to find a middle ground," she says. If it is impossible to pry your kids away from the television on a cold day, encourage them to do jumping jacks, push ups or sits ups during commercial breaks.