In the cooler months, finding physical activities that are engaging enough to keep you interested all season long and are easy enough to do every day can be a tough challenge!

Nevertheless, it’s important to keep active—especially in light of a 2000 National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases study that found on average, American adults gain just over one pound from November through February.

While that number may be lower than most would think, it also represents permanent weight gain—and, if left unchecked, 1.05 pounds every winter can add up throughout a lifetime.

Luckily, this is the perfect time to try an exciting way to exercise inside. Exergaming has been sweeping the nation as a fun-filled way to get your heart rate up and burn calories. This new phenomenon combines working out and playing video games.

The benefits of exergaming extend beyond weight loss, as it can boost your self-esteem and give you an energy lift too.

Try It Out!

Check with your doctor to be sure you’re ready for physical activity, grab a game console and play away! Most leading game systems have an activity-focused selection available. In general, options fall under the following categories:

Dance Games

You’ll move your feet on a floor pad in sync with arrows that direct your motions on the screen. It’s set to music and adjustable for your skill level. These can be tricky, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be hooked.

Virtual Physical Trainers

A number of different virtual physical trainer games exist, and most are very sophisticated. Some even take into account if you’ve skipped a session by upping the intensity during subsequent workouts. They can integrate workout tools like medicine balls and are able to chart and log your progress.

Virtual Sports

You can experience (in a way) sports like tennis, bowling and figure skating from the comfort of your living room. Virtual sports are great ways to improve your hand-eye coordination and can even be played in a group!

Pros:

• It’s so much fun, you’ll almost forget your working during this workout.
• It can be social. Including friends and family is a great way to keep motivated and enthusiastic.
• It can be private. If working out at the gym isn’t for you, games are available to give you personalized pointers and encouragement while you workout.
• It’s a great way to add variety to your exercise routine during the lackluster winter months.

Cons:

• It can be expensive. Gaming consoles can cost as much as $400, not including fitness accessories and games (but you can find less-pricey second-hand versions).

Bonus:

After trying new sports the virtual way, take a shot at the real-life version.