Winter Workout Options on Martha's Vineyard

Photo: Nicole Freidler

We all know one of the challenges of winter is maintaining a healthy lifestyle throughout the colder, darker months. It can be easy to rush home and fall victim to more sedentary activities as soon as the sun goes down, when five o’clock feels like none o’clock. Despite our slower winters, Martha’s Vineyard is still packed with dozens of winter workout options to keep you staying active and fit. It’s just up to you to get there and make that movement happen. Whether you prefer high intensity workouts or more meditative ones take a class with one of our local fitness gurus or challenge yourself to some action on your own.

Swimming
Swimming is a fantastic winter activity, not to mention it reminds us of summer. Not only does swimming raise your heart rate but it’s a low impact exercise, that works your whole body–helping you to build endurance, muscle and cardiovascular fitness. Both the Mansion House Health Club and the YMCA in Vineyard Haven often pools and classes for a good workout or some welcomed water therapy.
 
Skating
If winter sports are more your thing check out the Martha’s Vineyard Ice Arena, which recently underwent renovations and has reopened with a fresh new look. Ice skating can offer you a great cardio exercise, disguised as a fun way to stay fit. It improves your balance and joint flexibility and is a great form of stress relief. The weather outside may get frightful but the ice inside can be so delightful!
 
Boxing
Do you pack a punch? Try your skills at boxing on Martha’s Vineyard. Instructor Charlie Giordano offers boxing classes for participants of all levels at Yoga on the Vine in Edgartown. Boxing allows you to better manage your breathing while exercising all your major muscle groups. Have fun working on your boxing skills while getting stronger, fitter, and more confident. 

CrossFit
Want to keep things interesting? Try CrossFit. This constantly varied, high-intensity workout has grown increasingly popular over the last several years and here on Martha’s Vineyard is no different. Our island is home to one CrossFit gym, aptly named CrossFit Martha’s Vineyard, and it’s loyal members and visitors rave about its efficacy, and its community. Plus the lingo alone is enough to intrigue curious minds, up for a burpee? Whether you’re new to it or a seasoned crossfitter give it a try, your body and soul will thank you.
 
Yoga
If something more meditative is more your speed you’ve come to the right island. Martha’s Vineyard is home to dozens of yoga studios offering every kind of form or flow for the yogi in you. From vinyasa to kripalu and all types in between, get in position and try a class at on of our health clubs or yoga studios. Namaste!
 
Get outside
The best part of winter on Martha’s Vineyard is still being able to work out outside! Bundle up and brave the chill and go for a hike or bike ride around our beautiful island. Did you know that walking or running through the snow take more effort, and our bodies have to work harder in general when it’s cold out? The same extra effort required by snow and cold weather that burns up calories also exercises your heart, plus you’ll soak up some vitamin D along the way. Don’t be afraid of the winter weather, embrace it, your body will benefit.