'Tis the season for hot cocoa, cozy nights-in, and sitting by the fire - but that doesn't mean your workout habits have to wait until spring to pick back up.

Sometimes your favorite exercise routines get pushed to the side when the cool weather arrives. While you can still do activities like play tennis in cold weather or go for a brisk run, once the snow and ice show up, the outdoor season is officially over.

Ice skating is an excellent option if you're looking for a challenging way to stay fit this winter. Skating is a calorie-burning, leg-toning, and core-strengthening winter workout. And the best part? It's fun!

Here are 5 reasons to strap on a pair of skates and head to your local lake or ice rink this year. Plus, learn what ice skates are best for beginners to help you get started.

Did you know skating strikes a unique balance between stimulating and therapeutic? As your body flows and focuses on your movements, your mind will focus solely on the activity. As a result, ice skating serves as a great, healthy escape from daily stresses.

For the same reasons, ice skating also boosts brain power. It takes extreme focus to ice skate, which helps increase concentration.

Is ice skating a good workout? Absolutely. Skating can burn twice as many calories as yoga and around the same as you can burn on the elliptical. If you're not ready to go full-on, Michelle Kwan, integrate a few ice skating sessions into your weekly workout routine.

Upgrade your winter workout this year. You need to engage your legs to make those sharp pivots and long strides. Ice skating works the knees, calves, and inner thighs, contributing to toned, flexible legs.

It's not just your legs that will feel the burn either. Skating is a total body workout, meaning each muscle is used. Ice skating is especially tough on the core. Skating engages the abs without doing a single crunch or sit-up on the floor.

The first time you step on the ice, balancing is tricky. The ice is slippery, and ankles naturally want to wobble. With that being said, it's the type of sport that you can learn at any age. Of course, staying upright will take some much-needed time, patience, and a lot of practice. But, give it some time, and you'll notice an improvement in your technique.

Plus, it's a fun winter activity for the whole family. So if you're looking to get your kids away from the screen and release some energy, take a trip to your local rink.

No skates? Read ahead to learn what ice skates are best for beginners.

Skating regularly is excellent for increasing endurance. Plus, the more comfortable you get on the ice, the longer your workouts will become. You can use your gained endurance in other sports. Once spring rolls around, you'll be set for the tennis courts, running track, golf course, or any other activity you enjoy during the warmer months.

Figure skates are usually considered the best option for beginners for a few reasons. Figure skates tend to feel more stable, the blade is longer, the toe pick stops you from going too far forward on the blade, and the tail prevents you from leaning too far back.

Here are a few of the best beginner skates for your winter workout routine.

Gam Horizon Women's Figure Skates - These skates are specifically designed for beginners who still need to learn the basics of ice skating. The microfiber lining and improved tongue design help you feel secure and supported on the ice. These are great for recreational skaters who aren't attempting advanced tricks.

Riedell Opal 110 Women's Figure Skates - These particular Riedell skates are great for beginners and offer excellent flexibility and support within the boot. The quilted lining keeps your feet cushioned and comfortable, while the split tongue design provides stability on the ice.

If you're planning on bringing the family to the lake or the rink this year, the Riedell Opal Jr. 10 Girls Figure Skates are the same as the Riedell Opal 110 Women's Figure Skates, just made for smaller feet!

Now that the holiday season has rolled around, more ice rinks are popping up. You can spend hours ice skating without realizing how time has flown by. So take advantage of this fun cold-weather activity and use it as a way to shake up a dull (or non-existent) winter workout routine.

Plus, there's always room for a peppermint latte when you exit the ice!

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