You’ll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor fitness in the winter—just make sure you’re wearing warm clothing and the proper gear. (For Spectrum Health Beat)

Old Man Winter is just around the corner. But don’t let the colder weather put a chill on your workout.

Even when the temperature drops, there are plenty of fitness options for those who prefer indoors—and if you dress appropriately, you can stay in shape with outdoor activity, too.

“Being active keeps you healthy both mentally and physically,” said Michelle Marine, a Spectrum Health Orthopedics at Work athletic trainer. “So the most important thing is to stay active in the winter, no matter what exercise or activity you choose.”

Marine offers 10 tips for working out during cold weather:

1. Find the right activity

Selecting the appropriate exercises is critical—and it depends on individual tastes and comfort. Choose what exercise fits with your activities. It could be weights, bicycling, resistance bands or cardio training routines such as running or bicycling.

2. Go local

If you are traveling, look for a recreation center or gym near where you’re staying. Pick a fun running interval workout or a simple circuit workout, with or without weights. Local fitness centers are an option.

3. Commit to specific days

Choose a specific number of days each week for a workout. Be sure to incorporate rest days into any routine.

“Be realistic with how many days you are going to commit to,” Marine said. “If not every day, then what is a good number for you? People have to be honest with themselves. For some, two to three days a week may be best. But any type of regular workout can be helpful in keeping you fit.”

4. Stick to the schedule

For best results, individuals need to commit to a regular time of day for their workouts. Generally, mornings are most popular. But for those who are not morning people, another time of the day may work best. Be careful about exercising at night, because these workouts usually energize people. Try not to exercise before bedtime.

5. Find a buddy

If possible, select a workout partner or group. Virtual groups could work well, too, Marine said.

The options are endless. Want to join a fitness class or a workout at a local gym? You’ll find plenty of options. The companionship can provide social support, camaraderie and even a distraction from the cold weather.

If you like to exercise by yourself, that’s perfectly fine, too.

6. Set realistic goals

It’s important to set goals you can achieve. And, especially in winter, you should focus on the mental health benefits.

While you may not see weight loss or feel fit right away, you’ll feel better and feel less stressed, Marine said. Exercise also helps combat seasonal affective disorder.

7. Stay motivated

It can be difficult to maintain your motivation. To stay enthusiastic, remember that it’s OK to have some fun with your exercises, Marine said.

If you’re on a stationary bike, read or listen to an audiobook or watch television. If you’re running, listen to music—or just vary your routine. Sprint a short distance, walk a while and then run.

8. Head outdoors

Even in the winter, there are outside activities. They range from cross-country skiing and snowshoeing to just a walk or run in the park. However, long distance runs are not advised, Marine said.

9. Bundle up

Make sure you have the appropriate gear for any outdoor activity. Find the right skis and snowshoes for those activities, and be sure to buy properly fitting gloves and masks. Hand warmers are useful, too.

Dress appropriately. Wear layers of clothing so that if you get too warm, you can take some off. Also, be cautious about terrain—slipping on the ice is a severe danger.

10. Drink water

One of the most important aspects of working out, either indoors or out, is staying hydrated. Also, If you’re going outside in the winter, use sunscreen just as you would in the summer. And remember—snow and ice are not substitutes for water.