During the winter months, deciding you can't exercise is as easy as looking out a window. "It's raining/snowing/sleeting; clearly I can't work out."

Going to the gym is less than ideal if you're up against monthly fees and protein shake-swilling types, or if you have limited time after already trying to fit in work, school and some semblance of a life.

Plus, most home workout programs like 6 Second Abs (pictured at right) aren't much more than novelty items (a coworker received this in our annual white elephant gift exchange).

These convenient excuses, coupled with delicious nog-related beverages, can lead to the dreaded winter weight gain.

But fear not, there are many exercises that you can do in the home or office that only require a few minutes of your time:

• Stretching--Whether at work or school, sitting for hours at a desk can leave you in a daze. Try these stretching exercises to help keep you alert.
• Pushups and Pull-ups--Pick up a doorway pull-up bar for around $15, or push yourself up off the ground for free. Start with a small goal, even if it's only one or two repetitions, increasing the number of reps every week.
• Ab Wheel--$10 or less new, or even cheaper used, ab wheels work your abs, back and arms.
• Seven-Minute Workout--A great way to wake up in the morning, this workout focuses on all your major muscle groups, stretching and balance, all in seven minutes.

When trying to fit in exercise around your current lifestyle, it helps to get creative. A few minutes of exercise a day (and the end of nog season) will help keep post-holiday weight off until getting your exercise outside is more appealing.

--Cody