Ahh, winter! Shorter days. Cold temperatures. Foul weather. Let’s face it, spending the winter alternating between napping in bed and splaying across the couch sounds awfully good. But fight the temptation. Winter sports can help you burn calories, increase your cardiovascular fitness, and strengthen muscles. Activities that are weight-bearing (like cross-country skiing or skating) help build stronger and denser bones. Being outdoors and getting exercise are also great for your mental health. Exercise boosts mood and sunlight seems to help beat back the winter blues. So slap on some sunblock and go! If you need more convincing, remember this: staying in shape during the winter gets you physically ready for springtime activities (and wardrobes).