Senior woman exercising at home

Too Cold Outside? Try Online Fitness Classes

Tara Canada, Community Health Network health coach and fitness specialist, offers a great way to exercise from the comfort of home.

When the weather outside is frightful, you can work out with expert instructors and never leave home! Online streaming exercise videos are the perfect solution for a satisfying workout when winter weather hits. Choose a simple walking workout, a tranquil yoga session or a calorie-burning boot camp. Exercise anytime, anywhere, on any device! You can even get the whole family involved.

Online workouts offer variety plus convenience. Some sites may require you to pay a monthly membership fee for streaming workouts, but most sites allow a free trial. DailyBurn and Beachbody are two options that boast elite trainers and great workout variety. You can try new moves every week. And there are options for all fitness levels.

You can also find free, high-quality workouts on YouTube. Popular choices include Popsugar Fitness and Jessica Smith TV.

Tips for Online Fitness Success

  • Look for great instructors. Choose fitness trainers who work out at a pace that is right for you and who demonstrate multiple options. You'll have a better workout if the exercises are in sync with your fitness abilities and equipment.
  • Try an in-person class. Before trying an exercise class that is brand new to you, consider attending an in-person class where an instructor can give you feedback on your exercise technique.
  • Increase exercise intensity gradually. Plan to do some shorter, lighter-effort workouts, especially as you’re starting out.
  • Stay in tune with your body. Exercise – even very demanding exercise – should be kind to your body. Work out at a level that is challenging and enjoyable, but that doesn't compromise good technique.