Cross-training — varying your fitness routine with different activities — is a good idea any time of the year. It improves overall fitness and reduces the risk of injury because you're not using the same set of muscles in the same way every time. And it makes workouts more fun so you don't risk burnout from doing the same old thing.

For those who want to move their workouts indoors, there are any number of ways to maintain cardiovascular conditioning. A runner can keep running, of course, by getting on a treadmill, just as cyclists can keep pedaling on a stationary bike or wind trainer. But there also are swimming, skating, aerobics classes, elliptical trainers, dance classes and much more.

Aerobic conditioning, however, is only one element of a well-rounded fitness routine. Strength training and flexibility should be included as well.

"As a general approach to health and fitness, balancing your program is really the way to go," says Michael Barnes, education director for the Colorado Springs-based National Strength and Conditioning Association.

"You don't have to be outside to work on flexibility," Barnes says.

"And you don't have to be outside to work on your strength training."

You can incorporate flexibility into your routine on your own with some simple stretching exercises. Or you could join the growing number of people who are taking up yoga and Pilates.

For strength training, pick calisthenics, free weights or weight machines.

Keep your sport in mind when tailoring your program, Barnes advises. Golfers, for example, should focus on hips, lower back, shoulders and stomach.

Florez recommends working on flexibility four or five days a week and strength training — "done with quality and intensity" — two or three days a week. If you don't know where to start, get help, he says.

"The best thing someone can do is enlist a certified personal trainer for at least two to three sessions to give them a basic program geared toward their sport and their specific needs."

"You go with what you're presented," Barnes says. "I think it's more of a mental state than it is anything else."

Tips on choosing a personal trainer

If you're confused about the ins and outs of a well-rounded fitness program, consider enlisting the help of a personal trainer: 

Look for a trainer who can assist you with your needs. A personal trainer always should have you fill out a health history questionnaire to determine your needs or limitations and tailor your program.

• Ask for the names and phone numbers of other clients with goals similar to yours. See if they were pleased with their workouts, if their needs were addressed and whether the trainer was punctual and prepared.
• Make sure this is someone you can work with. Will the personal trainer you're talking to accommodate your schedule? What about the trainer's gender? Some people do better working with a trainer of the same sex; others prefer the opposite sex.
• Ask about experience.

Choosing a health club

• Is the location convenient for you?
• Do the club's hours meet your needs? Visit the club at the times you would be using it. Are there long lines at the equipment? Are classes full?
• Are staff members friendly and helpful? Is the club clean and well-maintained? Is the music too loud?
• Are new members provided with a club orientation and instruction on how to use equipment?
• Does the club have the variety of equipment and classes you want and need to achieve fitness goals?
• Is child care available if you need it?
• Can you afford it? Is there a payment schedule that meets your needs?

Good Luck!