Heres how to stay on track amidst the gatherings, bad weather, and celebrating.

Plan Ahead

Scheduling workouts ahead of time is an excellent way to stay on top of your goals.

In addition, prepare for workouts the night before to make it easier on yourself in the morning.

Holiday shopping mall

Dressing in silly matching costumes is optional, but encouraged.

Download:C25K 5K Trainer foriOS|Android(Free, in-app purchases available)

3.

Count Steps While Shopping

Taking a lap around the mall might rack up more steps than you realize.

Group of runners in a race

By keeping track of steps throughout the day, step-counting apps record just how much ground you’ve covered.

As the article explains, walking is an excellent physical activity that can help increase aerobic exercise.

To add a little fun to the mix, make a game out of increasing your step count.

Person riding bike beside holiday lights

To more easily keep up with traffic, considerinvesting in an e-bikeas well.

Download:Bike GPS Ride Tracker foriOS|Android(Free, in-app purchases available)

5.

Try Shorter Workouts

When it comes to exercise, sometimes a little effort can go a long way.

Person doing indoor workout

Despite their short length, these workouts are no walk in the park.

They encourage strength-building, mobility, and cardio in just a few minutes at home.

Join a Group Fitness Challenge

Make workouts part of a team effort.

For many people, participating in team sports or group exercise classes is an excellent way to stay motivated.

In addition, joining group-based workouts may even help protect against depression, according toSocial Science & Medicine.

Downloading somesocial workout appscan help you connect with others, as well.

Want to add a little competition to the mix?

Download:Challenges - Compete, Get Fit foriOS|Android(Free)

7.

Try Indoor Workouts

Shorter days and lousy weather can make outdoor workouts less than appealing.

Thankfully, there are plenty of engagingYouTube channels for low-impact workoutsto keep things moving at home.

Even better: none of the workouts call for jumping moves, so these exercises are apartment-friendly.

Work up a sweat any time of day without irritating the neighbors.

Try Something Totally New

Pick up a new sport or activity during the wintry holidays.

Evenaugmented reality fitness appslike Plaicise can shake up anybody’s workout routine.

There is a reason why switching up fitness endeavors can be so exciting.