The summer months are the perfect time to exercise, not only are the days longer and the weather warmer, but you’re more likely to be inspired by seeing other people out and about, making the most of the sunshine and keeping active.

However, there’s no reason why your exercise regime should slow down or stop once winter comes around.

In fact, the colder months are the perfect time to not only reassess your fitness goals but also to remind yourself of all the benefits that keeping fit can bestow at a time when our moods tend to suffer, we’re more susceptible to illness, and many of us gain a little extra weight.

Of course, a great way circumvent the chilly weather and ‘winter blues’ is to seek comfort in the warm bloom of a thermal spa. However, it’s a good idea to revamp your exercise routine during the winter months so that you can emerge on the other side of winter feeling healthy, fit, and with an increased sense of well being.

As important as it is to keep exercising during the winter, we understand how easy it is to feel unmotivated when it’s freezing outside, and all you want to do is get into full hibernation mode, complete with a cup of hot chocolate.

Unfortunately, if you give in to this urge to slow down, it can hurt your wellbeing and health. Research has shown that the best way to increase your immunity against colds and flu and to beat the winter blues is to exercise.

Even a short walk in the middle of the day is enough to increase dopamine and norepinephrine, important neurotransmitters that energise the brain and regulate circadian rhythms.

Don’t forget to treat yourself with a massage to keep your body and mind well balanced- even if you haven’t done any exercise in a while, this will alleviate any stress and keep motivation levels high.

There are many ways to transition your favourite summer workouts to their winter alternatives. Here are some ideas to get you started:

If summer exercise for you means rounders on the field, footie in the park, or netball with friends, don’t think you have to give up on social workouts just because it’s chilly.

Instead, try a group exercise class at your local gym. From Zumba to salsa dancing to aerobics, you’re bound to find a workout where you can be as sociable as you like, all while getting your heart pumping!

Research shows that jogging in the winter is ideal, as the cold lowers your heart rate and you’re far less likely to get dehydrated, making it easier for you to run longer distances at a faster pace.

However, if the weather outside is just too frightful, switch to a treadmill for the time being. You still get the same great exercise while avoiding treacherous black ice and frostbite!

You may not get the same stellar outside views on an exercise bike, but don’t let that put you off. Stay focussed with a podcast, music or watch a video.

There’s nothing better than to bask in the warmth in your local swimming pool but it’s also a great way to build your fitness. 27% of adults in the UK are estimated not being able to swim, if you’re one of them; why not use the winter months to finally dust off the swimming cap? Just in time to show off your skills in the sea for summer.

Just because you really can’t bring yourself to leave the house when the temperature has dropped doesn’t mean you have to avoid exercise. There’s plenty of free workout videos available online and you can turn your living room into a gym!

If you have the space for equipment such as weights, skipping ropes, resistance bands, etc., even better. Incorporate them into your routine for a full body workout.

The winter months are also a great time to try something new. From yoga to Pilates to hip-hop dance classes, there are plenty of fun winter-friendly exercises you can do to keep you healthy and fit and in the best frame of mind.

Whichever exercise you opt for as your winter workout, don’t forget to do a warm up first, as the cooler weather makes muscles tighter. On top of that, include a cool down afterwards to prevent any injuries.

To really aid recovery and relieve yourself from any aches and pains from a strenuous workout - indulge yourself in thermal spa therapy. The heat will heal your body by encouraging blood circulation, hitting muscles that are in need of repair. Which means you’ll recover quicker and be more than prepared for your next physical winter excursion.

So, next time your motivation wavers and you consider skipping your winter workouts, remind yourself of all the wonderful benefits that keeping fit has at this time of the year, both for your body and your mind.

Best thing of all, if you can carry on your fitness regime from winter to summer then you’re in the best frame of mind to tackle the dreaded New Year resolution!