Indoor walking is becoming a major part of my fitness life.

Walking bores me and I'm not an outdoors person. Where I live right now the weather is freezing cold, and windy with an astonishing lack of sidewalks.

But walking is good for the heart and body. Plus, I want to do a lot of traveling, and it is hard to go abroad when you hate walking up the block.

I found a solution - indoor walking videos by people like Leslie Sansone. No matter how cold it is or how annoyed I am, I can put on my sneakers, put in a DVD and walk, walk, walk!

What I like about indoor walking DVDs is that I can walk a mile in 14 minutes, feel like I worked out, but i'm not bored to death, and I don't have the "is it over yet" feeling, I have when trying to walk around outside. Plus, it's a lot safer. People drive crazier and crazier every day, especially in the country towns like the one I live in, and it would be a lot better for my fitness and health to not dodge a vehicle every time I am walking.

My uncle, however, still swears by outdoor walking and tries to do five miles in the country every single day. I don't know how he does it.

However, both Indoor and outdoor walking are great ways to relieve stress and frustration, without taking it out on other people, pets, on the road or furniture. The other day I was particularly frustrated and literally stomped it out by doing a fast, advanced Leslie Sansone mile. I used to think she was nuts for saying, "Walking puts you in a better mood," but it's true.

So whether you are walking for fitness or stress relief, indoor walking might be a safe and fun way to go.

When the forecast calls for snowstorms and subzero temperatures, heading outdoors on your usual morning run or biking excursion might earn itself a rain check status. Still, keeping in shape during the winter months is easier when you schedule yourself a few indoor sporting activities. You don't have to be an athletic superstar to take on an indoor roller skating challenge or show off your skills on the indoor soccer field. Just grab your gear and head off to a fun, heart-pumping activity that will get you that fitness fix!

Kick off your athletic shoes and strap on a pair of roller skates for a lower body workout like no other. Just track down a roller skating rink in your area for a fun, but challenging, fitness activity that will get your fitness routine into high gear. Be sure to get fitted for the right size so you're slipping and sliding on that rink for the right reasons.

If you're a soccer aficionado, head to the indoor field for a calorie-burning game that might just keep you in great shape this season. A pair of indoor soccer shoes will get you on track to soccer stardom; just look for a pair with extra traction and a flexible sole for extra comfort.

Missing those outdoor tennis games? Turn yourself into a racquetball enthusiast this season and get a terrific total body workout in the process. This fast-paced sport requires a lightweight pair of athletic shoes so you can maneuver around and play the court like a pro. Look for hard-court shoes with extra lining and cushioning for extra comfort.

When the day calls for a game of indoor volleyball, get yourself in gear with some supportive court shoes. A pair of lightweight shoes made with a molded toe and mesh inserts will give the extra support and comfort you need to stay on your toes for that fast-paced game.

From the roller skating rink to the indoor soccer field, you have few excuses to skip the fitness routine this winter. Grab your gear and take on that next fitness challenge with any of these indoor sports this season!