When cold weather comes, the temptation to skip your outdoor exercise routine can often be very strong. However, if you are physically able (check with your doctor to make sure you are), you should try to continue exercising outdoors whenever possible.
You may have to wait until the middle of the afternoon when the temperature is at its warmest, but you should still be able to continue your exercise regimen in cold weather. No excuses folks.
Dress in Layers
This will allow you to remove pieces as you warm up. For example, you can start with a thermal undershirt and pants. Hanes? offers some for both men and women. Add a long-sleeve lightweight flannel shirt, sweatpants and a sweatshirt with a hood. As you start getting warm, but before you start perspiring heavily, remove the sweatshirt and tie it around your shoulders or waist and keep moving.
Cover Up
Cover exposed skin. Not only will it help you retain body heat, but doing this will prevent your skin from becoming raw and chapped and will prevent frostbite. If your skin is exposed and becomes pale or starts to feel numb or tingle, you may be close to experiencing frostbite. If this happens, get into a warm place and slowly re-warm the skin. Do not rub the affected areas; this can cause the skin to slough off.
Hydrate
Drink water. You may think that because it is cold, your body does not need as much water. It still does because you're still losing fluids as you exercise. Dehydration can occur even in frigid conditions.
Be Smart
Learn to recognize symptoms of hypothermia. Hypothermia can be a serious medical condition, which can lead to death. Symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic's website, include intense shivering, slurred speech, loss of coordination and fatigue. If you or someone else appears to be suffering from hypothermia, you should seek medical help right away.
Stay in shape during the winter with a fitness class.