Yellowknife (Aug 25/03) - Winter will soon be here and people are starting to move indoors to keep active and stay healthy.

Communities around the Northwest Territories and Nunavut have fitness facilities that offer a variety of programs. Each has unique services to help people stay fit and healthy during the winter.

In Inuvik, the Midnight Sun Recreation Complex has a full fitness centre with treadmills and free weights. The centre is open 24-7 to it's members.

Bobby Despres, recreation coordinator for Inuvik, said there are also a number of clubs, ranging from cross country skiing to badminton.

"Inuvik is busy all year round. There's always something to do," he said. "We are well equipped for anything."

Residents of Fort Simpson have a place they can go for their winter workout.

The Deh Cho Friendship Centre has a gym with a variety of weights and cardio equipment.

Walter Edwards, manager of the centre, said a lot of work went into renovating the gym.

"This is a great place to get a workout," he said.

In Hay River, the Total Fitness Centre is the place to pump iron or run on the treadmill. The centre offers a number of exercise programs like aerobics as well a fully equipped gym.

In Yellowknife there are three fitness centres where people can go to be active and healthy.

The Racquet Club has both a fitness area and squash courts. The centre also has saunas and hot tub for people to relax after a hard workout. The club also has a lounge for people to kick back and relax.

"There's a big social atmosphere at the Racquet Club," said Karen Forward office administer for the club. "This is a great place to stay fit and meet people."

Body Works is another centre in Yellowknife for people who want to be active.

The centre offers weights and cardio equipment, like bikes and treadmills as well as a sauna, tanning salon and retail store.

Francis Chang, owner of Body Works, said one thing they are proud of is their year-round running program.

"Everyone has a different reason for working out." he said. "For most it's a part of their daily life. It's just something they do now to stay healthy."

The third facility in Yellowknife is Breakaway Fitness Centre. They are also equipped with a variety of equipment from bikes to a variety of weights.

Atef Hamie, owner of the facility, said it's not difficult to stay in shape over the winter but it does take commitment.

"It's easy to stay active in the winter. You just have to have the right mind set," he said.

Some of the smaller communities around the north may not have a fitness centre but people can still stay active.

Schools gyms in Cambridge Bay offer sports programs ranging from aerobics, basketball and volleyball to floor hockey and indoor soccer.

Kuglukuk's school gym is also a good place for a workout and offers several winter fitness programs.