With the weather outside being frightful, it’s hard enough trying to stay motivated to work out instead of hibernating all winter long. Even a motivated person, however, can put himself or herself in danger without taking a few safety precautions before exercising outside during winter months?
According to Dr. Cedric Bryant of the American Council on Exercise, the greatest concern for working out in the cold is hypothermia. When the body loses more heat than it can produce, hypothermia occurs.
With the weather outside being frightful, it’s hard enough trying to stay motivated to work out instead of hibernating all winter long. Even a motivated person, however, can put himself or herself in danger without taking a few safety precautions before exercising outside during winter months?
According to Dr. Cedric Bryant of the American Council on Exercise, the greatest concern for working out in the cold is hypothermia. When the body loses more heat than it can produce, hypothermia occurs.
Hypothermia can lead to frostbite of exposed skin, sleepiness, confusion, or clumsiness. The mental confusion associated with hypothermia can slow down thinking and make it hard for you to realize you need help. If the body temperature drops 95° F, it is considered a medical emergency because it can be deadly.
Layer it Up
Make sure to dress up in a few layers to insulate your body. Although the amount of layers depends on your intensity level and amount of body fat, there are three essential layers everyone can benefit from. The trick is to prevent losing too much heat while preventing overheating your body.
A base layer of synthetic materials, but not cotton, can wick away sweat or moisture and will help you stay warmer longer. A quality mid-layer of wool or fleece will help keep in the heat. Finally, cover your layers with a third, waterproof outer layer.
Even if you are well-clothed, your head, hands, and feet can lose body heat. A hat or helmet is important to prevent losing heat from your head. If your head is uncovered, you will lose body heat quicker and the workout may have to be cut shorter. Wear gloves to protect body tissue in your hands and fingers.
The Weather Man is Your New Best Friend
Now, more than ever, is a great time to keep an eye on the weather forecast a few days ahead. If you can find a few sunnier or warmer days in advance you can plan accordingly. Since mornings and evenings are typically colder, try to schedule your workouts midday.
Try to avoid rainy days. It will be hard to keep your body temperature above the danger zone if your body is wet. Also, if you are soaked, your layers will not be able to protect you from losing body heat. Dr. Bryant advises that if the wind chill falls below minus 20°F, the conditions may be too dangerous to workout outdoors.
Stay Hydrated
Even though it’s not a hot, humid summer day, your body is still losing moisture. Remember to drink plenty of water while exercising to replenish the water you’ve lost. Nourish your body with the raw fat-burning power of whey protein to fuel your winter workout with EnergyFirst Protein Shakes.
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