By Jaiden Kohls

During the middle of winter days are shorter, temperatures are colder, and it might become harder to exercise–not to mention just getting the motivation to do anything other than cuddle under a blanket watching Netflix.

There are ways to work out in winter, even without a gym membership.

Try the boot-camp workout method

Start with a jump rope drill. That is standing in one position and jumping up and down while moving your arms as if you are holding a jump rope(if you don’t have a real jump rope at home). Do this for about one minute. This works out your shoulders, back, thighs, and calves-plus it’s great cardio!

Next, do some simple squats. Squats tone your booty and your thighs so you are ready to hit the beach in your swimsuit come summertime. You should do these for at least a minute.

Move right from squats to a minute of  lunges to workout your butt and thighs some more, along with your hips.

After squats do some crunches to tone that tummy. Again, do this for about one minute.

Then do some flutter kicks. That is lying down on your back with your palms facing down and raising your legs about 1 foot above the ground and simultaneously move them up and down for about one minute.

One minute of push-ups follow the flutters. After push-ups, do one minute of jumping jacks, then repeat the process all over again as many times as you feel you have to.

If the boot-camp method does not sound appealing, there are some other methods of working out that might.

Simply dancing to music is a fantastic workout

Dancing is great cardio and is awesome for your legs, back, arms, and abs.

There are dance-along  DVDs available for purchase if you can’t bust out your own moves, or video games such as the Just Dance series.

If neither of those fit your style, maybe it is time to buck up, brave the elements, and go for a run

If you do choose to go for a run in the winter time, be sure to dress warm and know how to be safe in colder temperatures.

Dress in layers, avoiding cotton as it stays wet against skin. Wear a hat and gloves to protect your head and fingers.

Be aware of what the temperature and wind chill are so you can dress accordingly. If the temperature is below 0 degrees and the wind chill is severe, maybe consider another workout alternative that keeps you indoors.

Working out in the winter can be difficult, but it is not impossible if you get creative and know how to be safe. First you’ll have to get off the couch, though.