The wind howls and the snow whirls past your window. You happily perch on your couch with a cup of hot tea and your favorite TV show is about to start. For many Canadians, this is a typical start to a weeknight during the winter months.

Slushy snow and icy streets can halt even the most earnest attempt to maintain your fitness in winter. If getting up to use the washroom during a commercial break is the closest you come to working out during the winter months, read on and find out how to stay fit and invigorated this season.

Winter fitness strategy 1: Hit the gym
Most fitness gyms have more than enough resources to get you started on your winter exercise plan and send you on your way to a fabulously fit season.

“Lift weights, resistance train and stretch to keep your muscles strong, agile and flexible for your favourite summer sports," says Maureen Hagan, vice president of operations at The GoodLife Fitness Clubs and Can-Fit-Pro certified fitness professional. "A personal trainer can help you set up a strength and flexibility maintenance program that will help you stay in shape and even get fitter.” Jog or power-stride on a treadmill or elliptical trainer to maintain energy levels and prevent weight gain.

There are no excuses to stop exercising during the winter months, especially since there are important health reasons to consider. “Canadian adults specifically tend to hibernate during the winter, pack on extra fat weight and become deconditioned," says Hagan. "Lack of regular physical activity also makes people feel lethargic, irritable and seasonally depressed.”

Joining an indoor sports league such as volleyball, basketball, or even dodge ball, can keep you motivated while connecting you to people in your community during the winter months, when you tend to be more isolated.

Winter fitness strategy 2: Go ice-skating
Skating for 30 minutes or more, two to three times per week, can enhance your endurance, balance and coordination -- plus, it's a fun activity at any age. “You tend to spend more time skating or skiing than walking around the neighborhood after dinner. This will add up to greater heart health and caloric expenditure,” explains Hagan. But before embarking on any outdoor activity such as skating or running be sure to warm up indoors.