Cool-weather activities to keep you in shape through winter

Hot yoga may be a good idea in winter. Photo / 123RF

Getting out of bed is hard enough, but when the temperature dips, it's near impossible. So warm up with these cool-weather activities that will keep you in tip-top shape through winter.

HOT YOGA

If Bikram's 40-degree studios get you too hot and bothered but the idea of a cold yoga mat can't get you out of bed, it's time to give heated yoga a go. Set at a toasty 30 degrees, heated yoga classes don't just feel good but increase blood flow and ease muscle tension. Head along to The Yoga Corner in Newmarket, Hot Yoga Works Britomart or Parnell's Studio Red and get your zen on.

SNOW PLANET

Fight cold with cold and hit the slopes for some action on the snow. Whether you're a seasoned skier heading for Tūroa or snowboarding down Snow Planet's green runs, the twisting and turning makes it a full body workout that builds strength in major muscle groups, improves cardiovascular stamina and is a whole lot of fun. snowplanet.co.nz

TEPID BATHS

More than 100 years old and still going strong, the Tepid Baths is something of an Auckland institution. Whether you shake the winter chills in the spa, steam room, sauna or all of the above, it's a sure-fire way to loosen stiff muscles, clear that pesky congestion and get your skin glowing. Just remember to drink lots of water afterwards to stay hydrated. Tepid Baths, 100 Customs St West.

HOT STONE MASSAGE

When it comes to a little pampering, hot stone massage is one of the best ways to treat yourself, and we've got the science to prove it. Turns out the combination of hot stone, oil and pressure doesn't just feel good but works to stretch out stubborn knots, encourage circulation and improve energy flow around the body. For some hot stone TLC, check out Herne Bay's Equipoise Spa, East Day Spa, or Chuan Spa at Cordis.

WINTER GARDENS

Wrap up in your warmest activewear and get your blood pumping with a stroll around Auckland Domain and the Wintergardens - your mind and body will thank you for it. According to countless studies, taking a walk through nature improves cardio fitness and energy levels as well as boosting your mood and calming your busy brain. Pair that with a hot, flat white from Billy Cafe or Domain and Ayr and you've got yourself the perfect winter morning package. Wintergarden Rd, Parnell.

FLOTATION THERAPY

Submerged in a flotation tank filled with warm water and concentrated Epsom salts, the mix of zero gravity and heat is proven to relieve stress, support muscle recovery and allow your mind to, well, float away. Find your nearest flotation centre at Float Culture in Mt Eden, White Beauty Spa and Float Lounge in Ponsonby or Infinity Float Centre in East Tamaki.

Compiled by Sarah Pollok