Colder temps this time of year may tempt you to put your exercise routine into hibernation mode, but don’t give in. We encourage you to climb out from under your soft, snuggly blankets, throw on some weather-appropriate activewear, and show up for winter workouts. You’ll reap rich rewards you won’t get any other time of year!
Boost Your Mood
Exercise boosts your mood all year long, but in the winter the effects are even more profound. Because the days are shorter, colder, and darker, winter can have a negative effect on your sense of well-being. Getting outside and raising your heart rate increases mood-boosting endorphins, like serotonin and dopamine, the “feel good” chemicals in your brain that make a major difference in your state of mind. A workout in the cold will leave you feeling happier and lighter—brain benefits that are worth getting hooked on!
Burn More Calories
Just existing in cold weather can feel like hard work—and it is! Your body has to work harder in colder environments to maintain its core temperature. In the same vein, your heart works harder to pump blood throughout your body. That means you’ll burn more calories from exercising in colder temperatures, plus you’ll build a stronger heart and increase your endurance, as well. Win-win!
Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Forcing yourself out of warm, cozy surroundings and into frigid temperatures can feel uncomfortable, but your body will build up a tolerance to the cold—and pretty quickly! Once you start reaping the benefits of the fresh air (like increased energy and better sleep), you might realize outdoor workouts are a non-negotiable in your wellness playbook. People who spend more time in nature have better mental and physical health, less stress, and better brain function.
Quick Tips for the Ultimate Winter Workout:
Dress for the elements. Keeping your head warm is rule #1, so make sure to wear a warm hat that covers your ears, as well as a scarf or face mask, depending on the temperature and wind chill. You’ll also want to wear a base layer made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials. Footwear to help minimize slips and falls on potentially icy, snowy, or uneven surfaces is a must. Don’t forget gloves and thin- or medium-weight socks (preferably made of merino wool) to keep your fingers and toes warm and comfortable.- Know the temperature and wind chill. Always know the temperature before you head outside for some exercise! Mayo Clinic recommends if the temperature falls below zero degrees Fahrenheit, or the wind chill is extreme (minus 25 degrees), you should skip the outdoor workout. Frostbite and hypothermia are nothing to take lightly, so make sure you are weather aware before an outdoor winter workout.
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Water is just as important in winter as it is in warmer months, even if you don’t feel as thirsty. This is because the risk of dehydration increases as your body works harder to regulate its proper temperature. Even when you’re not thirsty, drink lots of water to keep your body in tip-top form.