Easy indoor exercises: Staying active in the winter

February 6, 2026 Providence Oregon News Team

February 2026

At Providence, we’re committed to helping you stay healthy, strong and supported — no matter the season.

Breanne Brown, M.D., a sports medicine and family physician with Providence Medical Group, recently shared practical tips on KATU’s "Afternoon Live" to help people stay active indoors.

Use what you already have

“You don’t need a ton of space,” Dr. Brown says. “There are some tricks that we use, like stairs —that’s a great way to think about exercising.”

Even your daily environment can become a workout space. For example, your office chair can double as a piece of exercise equipment.

“With a chair, a lot of people will do chair yoga or stretching or even tricep dips,” Dr. Brown says.

Winter rain and cold can sap motivation, especially for Oregonians. Dr. Brown recommends finding indoor spaces where you can move comfortably, like shopping malls that open early and offer safe walking areas.

Build balance into your routine

Balance is especially important as we age, and it can be practiced anywhere, during simple daily tasks such as brushing your teeth or cooking a meal.

“Balance is really important, especially as we age — for prevention of falls,” Dr. Brown says. “I tell a lot of patients, ‘try to stand on just one leg.’”

No matter your age or fitness level, being intentional about your daily movements can make a meaningful difference in your health. Small, consistent actions: Climbing stairs, stretching at your desk, walking indoors or practicing balance, can help you stay active all year long.

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