Tips For Safe Workouts In Cold Weather

Do you stick to your workout rain or shine? What about snow, sleet and record low temperatures? Follow these simple cold weather workout tips to keep you on track and encouraged, even during the coldest of mornings:

• Wear a hat. Your body can lose a lot of its heat storage if your head is left uncovered.
• Always wear layers so that if you start to overheat you can shed excess clothing. Your first layer should always be some sort of lightweight material that repels water, keeping sweat away from your body and you dry.
• Hydrate. It may be more difficult to notice your body becoming dehydrated in winter, so be sure to track fluid intake during your workout..
• Wear shoes with good traction that help prevent slips on ice or slick surfaces. And, as always, watch where you step!
• Protect the face. Wearing some kind of active scarf or face wrap can help warm up the air you breathe in before it enters your lungs. It can also protect your face from wind-burn and frostbite.
• Warm-ups are more important than ever when it’s cold outside. Try starting your warm-up inside and finishing it outside, giving your muscles time to adjust. Little breaks during the first half of your warm-up can also help.
• Keep an eye on the forecast. Rain and freezing temperatures are not the best workout conditions! Knowing the forecast will help you set temperature limits for yourself as you come to terms with what is and is not okay with your body.

If you hurt yourself while exercising in the cold, contact Matthew Boes M.D. to ease the pain!