Let it snow! Fun ways to burn calories this winter (and burn off that cocoa!)

Shannon Hoehnen

As we've all noticed by now, Father Winter is here . For those of you who don't have to deal with an endless field of snow (ie - a snowy driveway), I hate your guts.

But after reading this, you, your sunglasses and tank tops may be hating mine.

Why, you ask? What could I possibly make you and your beautifully tanned skin jealous of me, Mrs. Powder, no excuse me...CULLEN ?

Well, because while you are lounging in your beach chairs, my friends, I am building biceps!

Yes, the only way to make shoveling a driveway tolerable is to think of it as a workout - and it really is! The average calories burn for a 150- lb person shoveling snow for 30 minutes is 205 calories. And for those of you who eloquently take out your aggression like me, slamming your shovel repeatedly into the slab of ice that was once your driveway, will whittle away 4 million calories. Of course then you'll need a hot chocolate, so you see where my title comes into play… (does this post vaguely resemble If You Give a Mouse a Cookie?)

Below is a list of other winter activities and the calories you'll burn after 30 minutes:

  • Building a Snowman: 140 calories

  • Cross-Country Skiing: 306

  • Downhill Skiing: 204 calories

  • Snowshoeing: 272 calories

  • Taking a stroll around the neighborhood to look for a snow blower to steal borrow: 112 calories

  • Cleaning house for the holiday party : 100 calories


Can you think of any other activites you enjoy outside in the winter?

Shannon is the founder and creator of The Daily Balance, a Web site updated daily with advice, tips and personal stories to help others find balance in their lives. From food to fashion, fitness, inspiration and recipes, The Daily Balance is the perfect tool for those who "want it all." For more fitness ideas and inspiration, visit www.thedailybalance.com.

[photo credit: Getty Images]