Seven ways to keep exercising in the cold, dark winter months

From the right clothing and socialising to signing up to challenges and tracking your progress, here’s how to enjoy working out as the days continue to shorten

Yoga v pilates: both are popular, but which would work best for you?

Increasing stress levels and growing awareness of wellbeing have contributed to the success of both forms of exercise. But their benefits depend on your body type and temperament

Noel Edmonds’ exercise secret: do it in the dark

The I’m a Celebrity star has surprised viewers with his toned torso, but is it really down to the mysterious power of his nocturnal exertions?

Fitness tips: winter swimming for beginners

Recovery is key to swimming when it’s cold

Fit in my 40s: ‘Open water swimming – I genuinely thought I might die’

Better to swim through the mild autumn into the start of winter, and build a tolerance

Butt seriously: how bottoms became a fitness obsession

More and more gym classes now focus on building your posterior – and a whole LA gym is dedicated to the pursuit. What’s behind the trend, and can exercise really change your shape?

Fit in my 40s: ‘Horse-riding for beginners is surprisingly strenuous’

Forced to sit up straight, I had to confront my slouch. I’ve been a little more upright ever since

Fitness tips: where can you learn to ride?

What will it be – a canter on the beach or a gallop through history?

Fat people can be fit too: meet the personal trainers who challenge every stereotype

The fitness industry can feel alienating if you’re not young, slim and able-bodied, but a few determined individuals are ensuring it’s radically more inclusive

Fitness tips: spinning for beginners

Be brave and sit near the front, says Boom Cycle’s head instructor Bangs