When the temperature drops and the snow begins to fall outside, it's hard to justify a good reason for getting off the couch. But even though lounging in front of the television feels a lot more tempting than taking a jog or even driving to the gym, there's no reason you have to completely surrender your fitness goals until spring. These ten simple strategies will motivate you to keep moving all season long. 

1. Have fun. Let's face it—an hour on the elliptical trainer at the gym can get quite boring, especially if you forgot your iPod or the guy next to you insists on watching boring reruns. Try tapping into your inner child instead. Did you love sledding as a kid? Could you always be found as the ice skating rink? Many of the same activities that gave you pleasure as a kid can be just as fun now. Yes, you may need new equipment; yes, you may need a refresher course; and yes, chances are your muscles will be sore afterwards—especially if you haven't been this active for awhile. But as long as you're having fun, you're far more likely to forget that you're getting a good cardiovascular workout.

2. Try something new. Here's another idea that will reawaken your inner child—name the activity that you always wanted to try as a kid, but weren't able to. Then explore that option as an adult. Better yet, try something completely outside your own personal activity safety zone-such as cardio salsa dancing, snowshoeing, or Tai Chi. You may awaken an old passion or even create an entirely new one.

3. Get outdoors. Fresh air provides a burst of fresh oxygen to your system—an instant energy booster. What's more, there's nothing like the sound of a bird singing, a squirrel chattering, or the icicles dripping to remind you that you're a small piece of something much larger—and that can give you a fresh take on living.

4. Clean your house. If you can't get outdoors to exercise, think about burning some calories while indoors. Giving your home a thorough cleaning will only help you feel better, but it will provide some great health benefits as well. Vacuuming, dusting, and scrubbing, for example, works your muscles and burns calories. Plus, the removal of dust and allergens from your home will help you feel better overall.

5. Buy new gear. There's nothing like some new clothes to give you a boost of confidence. You can use this saying to your advantage when it comes to fitness, too. Use your new outfit to show off your weight loss results, feel more comfortable at the gym, or just dust off your slightly outdated fitness image.