FINDING the motivation to exercise during the winter months can be difficult for most.

The thought of making your way to the gym or a local fitness class in the cold and the dark after a hard day of work can at times feel like too much to bare.

However, gym bunny or not, getting in shape is a fantastic way to not only get in shape and stay healthy but help boost self-esteem and confidence as well.

With most people dreaming of their summer holidays during January and February — it is the perfect time to start thinking about ways to achieve that seemingly elusive beach body.

The NHS recommends that adults aged between 19-64 do at least 150 minutes or two and a half hours of moderate-intensity aerobic activity such as cycling or fast walking every week as well as muscle strengthening activities that work all major muscles groups on two or more days.

Your local area is filled with different exercise classes and groups for you to make the most of.

From dance based Zumba and Bokwa to kettle bell and meta fit classes — there’s a work out for everyone.

Joining a class also helps encourage you to stick to your target as yo are surrounded by like-minded people all striving towards a similar goal.

Classes also offer a support network, making it less likely you'll feel tempted to skip the odd class or two.

If you don’t fancy taking part in a class you could always join your local gym where fully qualified instructors are on hand to offer health and nutrition advice.

Or alternatively, if you’re strapped for cash — why not go for a run in your local park or brisk walk or even a cycle.

Alternatively, why not download a free fitness app onto your smartphone for a little inspiration.

Regular exercise can help prevent major illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer by up to 50 per cent and lower your risk of early death by up to 30 per cent.

It is also reported that exercise can help reduce the risk of depression or dementia by up to 30 per cent as well as up to an 83 per cent lower risk of osteoarthritis.

However, no matter now fit you may be — it is always important to warm up in a bid to not only stay injury free but also to ensure that your body can perform to the best of it’s ability.

A 10 minute warm up — whether it includes marching or jogging on the spot — increases the blood circulation through muscles, tendons and ligaments heating them up to prevent strain and injury as well as increasing your heart rate.