Monday, December 17, 2012

Don't Let The Wintertime Hamper Your Workout Schedule!

Maintaining your usual outdoor exercise program is not always easy in the winter. During the winter, you'll face unpredictable weather, including snowstorms and harsh winds. Fortunately, you can still keep your regular routine by preparing wisely for each workout.

Wear the Right Clothes

Selecting the right clothes to wear when you exercise outside can make a huge difference in how you feel. You should always wear a pair of gloves and a hat to keep your entire body warm. Choose fabrics that will wick the sweat away from your body to help you feel more comfortable. However, you must avoid overdressing so that you won't feel too hot as you exercise. Remember, once you start your run, you will quickly generate some amount of body heat. Wear layers so that you can easily cool off if you start to overheat. Don't forget to wear a waterproof layer to help your clothes stay dry in snowy or rainy conditions.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water in the summer seems more natural due to the warm summer temperatures. Drinking enough water while you exercise is just as crucial in the winter. Your body will constantly need fluids to generate enough body heat to keep you warm. Always bring your water bottle with you for your outdoor exercise session.

Longer Warm Up Session

In the winter, your body sacrifices some blood flow to your limbs so that your core will stay warm. You may discover that it takes you longer to hit your usual running pace in the winter. Avoid this issue by prolonging the length of your warm up session. You'll start each session feeling more ready to run.

Watch the Terrain


Running on ice is a vastly different experience than running on dry pavement. Aim to use shorter and lighter strides when running on slippery surfaces. Stay focused during your entire run to avoid a misstep. Crashing into the ice can lead to a bad injury that will sideline you for weeks.

Know the Signs of Hypothermia

If you exercise outdoor frequently during the winter, you need to learn about the signs of hypothermia. For example, if you start to shiver uncontrollably or feel unusually clumsy, you may be experiencing the early symptoms of hypothermia. Get inside right away to avoid any further dangers.

Avoid Bad Conditions

Sometimes, the weather conditions are just too bad for running or any other outdoor exercise. Extreme temperatures and bitter snowstorms are not ideal conditions for a long winter run. On these days, exercise indoor at your home or a local gym. A session on a stationary bike or a treadmill will help you get the exercise you want.

Jezebel Lake is a blogger who enjoys writing about health and the great outdoors. She is currently promoting Six Nutrition. If you are a man in need of vitamins and supplements for your health, Six Nutrition can help.

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