Winter Jogging - Staying Fit In Cold Weather

Photo courtesy of ascaro41

Winter jogging can help you stay fit if you are properly prepared. Jogging is one of the best cardiovascular exercises out there even if it's done in the winter. Not only does it really challenge your system, but it is also a fairly inexpensive form of exercise to engage in. However, as the temperatures start to drop and colder weather sets in many people wonder if jogging outside is an option. Thankfully, the answer is yes, but there are a few tips and tricks to help you do it successfully.

The first thing that you need to determine is what does "winter" mean to you. Different geographic locations have different versions of winter. Those who live in warmer climates may have a more mild winter to deal with and that may make winter jogging significantly easier for them. Be aware that if you are in a more severe winter weather area you may have times when winter jogging is an impossibility.

Most joggers are concerned about jogging in the winter because of the temperature. As the temperature drops closer to the zero mark on the Fahrenheit scale, you will have to be more careful jogging outside.

Remember, you can always take advantage of treadmills inside if the weather is just too terrible outside. However, most joggers do not enjoy jogging on a treadmill and would rather find a way to be outside. So here is what you need to know to be healthy and safe jogging in the winter.

Layers

Generally, if the temperature falls between zero and thirty two degrees Fahrenheit, layers can be your best friend. You will want to start with a tight fitting layer like long underwear. From there, depending on the actual temperature you will want to put on a layer of a warmer material, like sweats. On top of that, you will want to add a lighter pair of pants and a jacket to help deflect the biting winter wind.

Materials

Layers are important, but so are the materials that they are made of. Many people make the mistake of choosing cotton-based garments. Cotton tends to keep moisture in and that can lead to you getting sick. When you are jogging you are going to be sweating, and the cotton holds that sweat there, which basically leaves you covered in cold water, which is uncomfortable and can lead to you getting sick. Instead, synthetic materials designed to pull water away from the skin are ideal.

Accessories

No outfit is complete without accessories, right? Well, the same can be said about your winter jogging wear. Gloves are essential since it's no fun jogging with frozen fingers. Additionally, a hat that can be pulled down over your ears and neck can reduce heat loss. Consider wearing a scarf or gaiter to allow you to breathe in warm air rather than the cold air. Finally, do not forget about sunglasses. They are not so much to keep the sun out of your eyes, but rather to protect your eyes from strong winter wind gusts and the glaring brightness of the snow.

• Use moisturizer and sunblock. Even though it may not be sunny outside still use the sunblock to avoid the damaging UV rays. The moisturizer will be good for your face and hands because cooler weather means lower humidity. Cold weather jogging can take its toll on your skin.

• Use lip balm with SPF 15 or higher.

• Wear bright clothes and/or a safety vest with reflective tape. Drivers need to see you especially if you're running along the road where a side walk may not be available.

• Don't push yourself to achieve new fitness levels. Cold weather jogging is more for maintenance and to break up the boredom of indoor workouts. It's not a time to push your body harder.

• Jog indoors on a treadmill if it's too cold, freezing or icy outside.

• Drink water or an electrolyte replacement drink such as Gatorade. Your body tends to lose more water and electrolytes during cold weather exercise because of the lower humidity.

Stay Motivated During Winter Jogging

• Set a regular time to work out and stick to it. Invite a friend to join you so you get your work out done.

• Talk to a friend or workout buddy even if you can’t get out to jog with them each day. Use the telephone to keep each other motivated. When the weather leads you to slouch on the couch, phone a friend and get a pep talk until you jump up on your feet and get going.

• It won’t be easy to stay motivated, but friends can help. Stick to the routine as much as possible and you won’t feel the after effects of a long indulgent holiday season.

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