How Does Cold Affect Workouts?
By Tom Herrin
A lot of times, people don't really give much thought as to what various kinds of conditions have an impact on their workouts. They may simply plod along each time trying to make their efforts count. When they are suddenly met with what may seem to be adverse challenges in the weather, they are forced to make quick adjustments or possibly bomb in their routine. Giving thought to just how to manage dealing with such change can be a pretty good task. While it may seem simple in the warmer temperatures to wear whatever and be ready to work out on a whim, doing so when it is potentially cold can be a different animal. Much more consideration must be given before plunging ahead.
Work Out When There Is Light
Even though many prefer to set their routine for after dinner hours, when it is colder, it may be far more productive to try to get out when there is still daylight. That means, for outdoor activities, there will be a better chance of more tolerable temperatures. The sun also provides a good portion of Vitamin D for those who are able to take advantage of it. The other side of this is to avoid staying outdoors for too long. This can help to avoid overexposure to the cold.
Eat Lots of Fruits and Vegetables
Maintaining that steady supply of vitamins is important any time, but especially so when it is cold. Eating good fruits and vegetables can do this. A healthy variety can also help keep people well hydrated as dehydration is often a silent issue that can sneak up on people when it is colder. If wind is added, it only gets worse. Many people find themselves suddenly in serious shape in regards to their water and have not even been aware that they were failing to take in enough water.
Dress the Part
When it is cold, there is no reason to try to show you can tough it out. It is true that you are likely to increase your body heat as you begin to exercise, and you have to allow for that when getting ready to go out. Going out with summer wear that offers no protection from many of the serious effects of the cold can be life-threatening. I try to wear layers that can be easily removed as I warm up. For me, I prefer to start out slightly cool knowing that I will warm quickly. If I wear layers, I can take some off if I become too warm. I also want something that I can carry easily so I don't have to struggle to do something with what I take off.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Redmond, Wash.