SCIENCE shows that moving more has multiple benefits. Exercise can limit your risk of developing major illnesses, improve your mood and help reduce anxiety and depression.

But staying active throughout the cold winter months can be tough. A recent report from Sport England noted that 70 per cent of those who do less exercise in winter find it less enjoyable, with 66 per cent recognising its importance but lacking the motivation.

Seasonal factors such as shorter daylight hours, colder temperatures and wet weather discourage activity.

If you can get yourself moving, you’ll reap the benefits and have more energy throughout the day.

Kelly McTighe, who is a health and fitness expert and personal trainer based at Better leisure centres in York, provides these helpful hints to help you avoid going into hibernation this winter and stay active whatever the weather.

Get active with your family

Get bouncing! Image supplied

Why not get the whole family involved? Try holding a mini ‘family challenge’ to get everyone moving. From a bounce off at the local trampoline park, seeing how many laps you can do in the swimming pool to a competitive game of indoor tennis, take on a challenge that encourages friendly competition while spending quality time with your family.

Try something new

Try a new sport or activity. Whether you’re a complete beginner or used to do it religiously as a youngster, scheduling in something weekly will give you focus. From group cycle and Zumba to Pilates and badminton, choose something you’re going to enjoy. And besides the physical benefits, you may also meet new people. If you’re in need of a lift in mood, try classes which are known to boost energy levels and support the immune system like Tai chi and yoga.

Go outdoors

Don’t ignore the mood-boosting benefits of the great outdoors. Not only will it put some colour in your cheeks but a walk in daylight will help with the absorption of vitamin D, a vital nutrient that helps prevent bone loss and reduces the risk of heart disease, weight gain and various cancers. Head to your local park or wood on a crisp winter day for an instant dose of calm. Just ensure you’re wrapped up warm in layers that you can peel off easily. Stick to a wind and water resistant top layer and something that will lock away moisture closest to your skin. And take care if it’s icy or wet.

Or workout inside

No excuses now, you can be active whatever the weather. From exercise classes and swimming to a friendly competition of badminton, your local leisure centre has a variety of indoor sports and activities. Or why not work up a sweat in the gym? If you find it hard to commit to something, rope in a friend? Your accountability to each other will help you both stay motivated and on track when the weather takes a turn. Better leisure centres offer a range of flexible membership options without tying you into a long term contract so you can opt to exercise indoors during the winter months only.

Eat and drink well

Kelly McTighe

Remember, consistency is key so make sure you drink enough water and, however tempting it may be at this time of year, try and step away from food that has a high fat and sugar content. There are plenty of healthier options to choose on your food shop and you could always try a few new healthy recipes as part of your regime. A good place to start is Change4Life, which offers recipe and snack ideas for the whole family. Don’t forget to ask your kids what they might like to get them thinking about healthier food swaps.

If you’re interested in improving your health and wellbeing, check out the NHS’s healthy choices quiz that provides guidance based on your answers to help you lead a healthier life.

Better leisure centres in the city include York Leisure Centre, Burnholme Sports Centre, Energise Leisure Centre and Yearsley Swimming Pool. For more information, please visit www.better.org.uk