We all know exercising is important. It reduces our risk of heart disease, stroke and cancer by up to 50 percent. But when the air outside is bitter with a biting wind, and it starts getting dark before we even leave the office, lacing up our trainers is less than inviting come winter. That’s why we’ve put together our guide of easy ways to keep active, whatever your lifestyle or budget. Now where did we leave our legwarmers?

Inconvenience yourself

Start gently by walking somewhere you never used to. The simple things can really make a difference- a mere five minutes climbing the stairs burns up to 150 calories. Goodbye escalator.

Carry, don’t push

Use a shopping trip as an impromptu weights session and carry a basket instead of a trolley. Not only will you not have to deal with a dodgy wheel, you’ll be toning your arms without even realising it.

Set reminders

It’s so easy to forget to move when you’re sitting at a desk all day. Set an alarm to remind you to get up and walk around every hour, even if it’s only for a cup of tea. We recommend spending two minutes stretching while you’re waiting for the kettle to boil.

Get cleaning

Cracking out the hoover might seem like a chore, but an intense tidying session can expend as many as 200 calories an hour. Bonus: You’ll have a beautifully tidy house at the end of it!

Be intense

Studies have revealed that sprinting 30 seconds just four to six times reaps the same benefits for your heart as a 40-60 minute jog. Keeping fit in less time? That’s our kind of workout!

Oh so vain

Get moving in front of a mirror. Researchers have found that people who check themselves out while exercising move faster and with less effort. Sweaty selfie time!

Gettin’ busy

You might not think about this added bonus when you’re getting down and dirty, but having sex is really good for our physical health! Kissing for an hour burns  68 calories, oral sex 100 calories per half hour and the main act burns up to as many as 144 calories every half an hour.  Just one more reason to head into the bedroom.