Daylight, fresh air and alone time in the snow with loved ones.
Best of all; you burn a lot of energy, i.e. burn fat – without thinking about it.
Combine utility with fun this winter with our 13 tips.

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No, you don’t have to hit the gym to lose weight. Even good old traditional leisure activities can help you stay in shape. Because even if you don’t think about it, your combustion is activated as soon as you move. Whether you’re sledding with the kids and running up and down the hill or shoveling snow in the garage driveway. And who doesn’t get sweaty after a few hours outside in the snow with the kids or the dog?

In total; any physical activity is good activity – especially if you want to increase your metabolism and lose weight. But the advantage of our suggestions is that you also get daylight, fresh air, valuable alone time with loved ones – and that you don’t feel the physical challenge you are actually putting your body through. But the clock is ticking and suddenly you’ve done a tough exercise session lasting several hours. Win-win for everyone!

The list: 13 winter activities to burn fat

Energy consumption varies somewhat depending on gender, height and weight. The examples here are calculated on a 170 cm tall woman who weighs 70 kg, and who moves at a medium intensity level for 60 minutes in order to burn fat.

Walking “normal” (~192 kcal)

A leisurely walk on flat terrain at a comfortable pace burns around 192 kcal per hour. It’s a gentle and accessible way to stay active, ideal for daily movement and improving cardiovascular health.

Walking on uneven ground (~382 kcal)

Navigating uneven surfaces like trails or forest paths boosts the intensity of your walk, engaging more muscles and burning about 382 kcal per hour. It improves balance, coordination, and lower body strength.

Walking with a pram (~202 kcal)

Pushing a stroller adds light resistance to your walk, raising the energy output to about 202 kcal per hour. It’s a great way for parents to stay active while caring for young children.

Walk, run and play with children (~212 kcal)

Chasing after kids and engaging in playful movement burns roughly 212 kcal per hour. The mix of walking, running, and lifting offers a spontaneous, joyful workout.

Skates (~416 kcal)

Skating, whether inline or on ice, is a fun cardio workout that works your legs and core, helping you burn approximately 416 kcal per hour. It’s also great for improving coordination and balance.

Ice hockey (~484 kcal)

Fast-paced and full-body, playing ice hockey torches around 484 kcal per hour. The bursts of speed, physical contact, and continuous motion make it a highly demanding sport.

Figure skating (~892 kcal)

Figure skating is an intense blend of athleticism and artistry, burning up to 892 kcal per hour. The constant movement, jumps, spins, and core engagement require serious stamina and control.

Skis (length) (~790 kcal)

Cross-country skiing, or “length skiing,” is one of the most calorie-burning winter activities, using both the upper and lower body to burn around 790 kcal per hour. It’s ideal for endurance and full-body conditioning.

Skiing (slalom) (~626 kcal)

Slalom skiing, with its quick turns and bursts of power, burns about 626 kcal per hour. It strengthens the legs, core, and reflexes while offering an adrenaline-filled ride down the slopes.

Skiing (downhill) (~382 kcal)

More relaxed than slalom, traditional downhill skiing still burns around 382 kcal per hour. While the descent offers moments of rest, steering and controlling the skis provide a solid leg workout.

Mountain walk (pack 9–19 kg) (~484 kcal)

Trekking uphill with a loaded pack significantly increases energy expenditure, burning approximately 484 kcal per hour. It challenges your endurance, strength, and cardiovascular system.

Scoop snow (~384 kcal)

Shoveling snow is tough, functional exercise, burning around 384 kcal per hour. It targets your back, arms, and core while increasing heart rate—especially in cold conditions.

Pole walking (~414 kcal)

Walking with poles, or Nordic walking, engages the upper body more than regular walking and burns about 414 kcal per hour. It’s an efficient full-body workout suitable for all fitness levels.

Read more about how to burn off the Christmas food.