Dipping temperatures can make for refreshing work outs. The gym is warm and a great place to get sweaty, but why restrict yourself to the indoors when you can suit up and sweat it out in the energizing cold?
If you prepare properly for the weather, there are amazing benefits to a wintery work out, that include:
Burn more calories. Your body has to work harder to keep your temperature warm and that ups your metabolism.
Dose of Vitamin D. Extra sun exposure from natural light can feel massive in the winter.
Strengthen your heart. Cardiovascular endurance can prepare the body for future workouts and non-exercise stresses in life.
Boost mood and energy. The stimulating endorphins produced by working harder to stay warm can also strengthen your sense of happiness.
Prepare for the weather:
- Layer up with moisture-wicking fabrics.
- Stay hydrated as sweat evaporates more quickly in the chilly, dry air.
- Warm-up and cool-down to stay loose, limber and warm, to prevent painful injuries.
- Wear sunscreen and sunglasses even when it’s freezing (if your skin is exposed).
“The cold never bothered me anyway.” Princess Elsa (Disney Frozen)