Why endorphins (and exercise) make you happy

By Kristen Domonell, Daily Burn

Updated 1259 GMT (2059 HKT) January 13, 2016

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Winter is here -- and so is the cold air that makes you want to snuggle up on the couch with a cup of hot cocoa. Many let the season's wrath keep them from exercising outdoors, but winter sports can offer great full-body workouts. So put down the cocoa, bundle up and head outside to try a few of these fun activities.
Photos: Get in a workout this winter
Get in a workout this winter – Winter is here -- and so is the cold air that makes you want to snuggle up on the couch with a cup of hot cocoa. Many let the season's wrath keep them from exercising outdoors, but winter sports can offer great full-body workouts. So put down the cocoa, bundle up and head outside to try a few of these fun activities.
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Release a few endorphins, improve your flexibility and work on major muscle groups in your legs -- such as hamstrings, calves and quads -- as you burn at least 450 calories an hour snowboarding or skiing. Studies show that outdoor exercise can also improve moods and reduce levels of anxiety.
Photos: Get in a workout this winter
Snowboarding or downhill skiing – Release a few endorphins, improve your flexibility and work on major muscle groups in your legs -- such as hamstrings, calves and quads -- as you burn at least 450 calories an hour snowboarding or skiing. Studies show that outdoor exercise can also improve moods and reduce levels of anxiety.
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Cross-country skiing works every major part of your body, including shoulders, arms, back, chest, abs, butt and legs. You also burn more calories than in any other sport, according to Neal Henderson, sports science director at Colorado's Boulder Center for Sports Medicine.