Winter’s cold temperatures and absence of sunlight create a perfect excuse for people to stay curled up in their beds while they binge Netflix. People may struggle with healthy living during the winter months, but with so many indoor options, fitness is still achievable. 

“The days feel shorter due to shorter daylight, and I find myself not wanting to workout,” said senior Jacob Hossenlopp, member of Iron Asylum gym. 

“I hate exercising in extreme cold,” said tennis player Maren Kelley. 

Talk to a few track team runners, and they might disagree.

While they might not shy from the cold, some people feel the cold creates no option to stay fit; indoor facilities and sports offer a solution. Gyms and recreational centers provide equipment like treadmills and dumbbells. Although these facilities come with a price, they’re usually affordable. In the city of Virginia Beach, an annual rec center membership costs $39 for youth and $104 for an adult, according to vbgov.com. One Life offers student membership for $29.99 a month. 

The Field House holds practices for indoor field hockey, soccer, volleyball, and more. Next door to the Field House is the YMCA, which is known for its outdoor heated pool, allowing swimmers to train in all elements. YMCA teen membership costs $22 monthly with a $30 joiner’s fee.

Tennis bubbles offer an opportunity to enjoy the sport without the biting temperatures or wind. 

Whatever the fitness opportunity may be, exercise releases endorphins and serotonin, which can help turn the winter blues around.

“Wrestling definitely keeps me in very good shape throughout the winter,” said senior, wrestler Nick Hilliard.