Just because it is cold outside, doesn’t mean that you have to stop working out outside. It just means that you have to have the proper cold weather workout gear. Believe it or not there are many products on the market today that will keep you nice and toasty while working out in the cold weather. You may not even notice when the snow starts to fall. Whether you are just going for a quick run in the cold weather or hitting the ski slopes, here are some essential cold weather workout gear that you should have.
The most important thing that you have to remember when working out in the cold weather is to dress appropriately. Layers and more layers are the key. Layering your clothing allows you to add or remove layers if you become too hot or too cold or even if you become wet. Let’s look at the layers you should wear in cold weather.
1. Start off your clothing with thermal underwear or other garments that are made to remove the moisture from your skin. This is called “wicking.” Look for words such as breathable or dry fit for “wicking” clothing. Even though you may be in the cold weather during your workout, you will still sweat and need this layer to help cool your body down.
2. Next, add some sort of insulating layer such as sweatpants, sweatshirts, long sleeve tees, fleeces, and flannels. This layer is to keep you warm and well insulated against the cold weather. Make sure that this layer is not to bulky were you can’t workout properly.
3. The last layer should be your protection layer. This includes water resistant jackets and coats and pants. This is the layer that should prevent you from getting soaked in the rain or the snow. If you do not wear this protective layer, you may end up soaked and cold and end up getting sick from it.
Next, you need to learn how to accessorize for your workout in the cold weather. This should not be about looking good, but should be more importantly about staying warm and dry during your workout. Here are the basic accessories you should have for a cold weather workout.
1. Headgear such as a hat or headband
This is very important in cold weather because 60% of your body’s heat can be lost if your head is uncovered in cold weather. This also allows for your head to stay dry if it is raining or snowing outside.
2. Gloves or mittens
You need to keep your fingers and hands warm during cold weather workouts. Look for gloves or mittens in a breathable and waterproof fabric. For some workouts you may not be able to wear mittens as they may be warmer but are harder to use your hands in. If that is the case, look for a warm pair of gloves in which you can easily move your hands.
3. Proper shoes
You always want to make sure that you have the proper shoes for your workout on. You do not want to be running in hiking boots or hiking in running shoes. Having the proper pair of shoes on can help support your feet and you whole body and lessen injuries during your workout.
4. Eye Protection
If you are going to be skiing or snowboarding, you definitely want to have your snow goggles on. They will help you to block out the sun’s rays off the snow and see the land and where you are going better. Even if you are just running in the cold weather, you still may want to wear a pair of sunglasses to block out the sun. Make sure that your eye protection fits properly.
