Post Date
January,
16
2018
How Cold is Too Cold to Workout Outside?
Old Man Winter has arrived! -Days are shorter - Temperatures are plunging. Early morning or evening outdoor workouts are during the coldest parts of the day. There is good news though. You don't have to give up those outside sweat sessions due to the bone-chilling temperatures according to Susan Paul, exercise physiologist and program director for the Orlando Track Shack Foundation. It’s generally safe to work out outdoors until the thermometer hits a freezing 20 degrees below zero. Of course you need to be properly outfitted. Nor as a beginner would you want to start training for your first 10K during the dead cold of winter.
If you follow these simple cold weather workout rules you will minimize injuries and boost your performance.
Cover your mouth - wear a face mask or scarf wrapped around your nose and mouth -- this will help heat and moisturize the air before it hits your lungs.
Protect your extremities
gloves, mittens, wool socks, headband and a snug-fitting hat.
Socks - This is probably the hardest one for me. My feet get cold very easily, so I like to wear layers of thick socks. This is hard to do when you go running because there is only so much room in your running shoe. So, I choose a dry-fit thin hiking sock for my first layer. For my second layer, Nike makes a dry fit running sock that keeps my foot pretty warm.
Take it Easy - It's better to run long and easy when the temperatures are frigid then a speed workout. This is not the time break your distance record or beat your best time.
Warm Up - Since it will take more time in the cold weather, allow your body to warm up thoroughly to avoid the risk of injury.
Remember winter running is about maintaining miles not the speed. If you are running longer distances you can break your runs up to avoid being in the cold too long. After your run make sure you avoid the post-run chills by getting out of your sweaty clothes and drink something warm.
Jeep -- It's not Just an Adventure!
It's a Good Life.
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