Tips for a Warmer Winter Workout
If you’re anything like this caveman, the thought of facing the blistering cold in the name of fitness isn’t exactly appealing. The mere thought of those Ice Age temperature winds while I’m trying to jog is enough to make me hide in my cave ’til next spring. Thankfully, there are a number of ways to keep you warm and comfortable while you’re out there in the cold.
- Increase Your Intensity
This one may sound a bit obvious, but fortunately it’s so easy even this caveman can do it! Instead of taking a long, leisurely walk, try a faster pace or a steeper incline. As you increase your speed and your intensity, your body will warm up more quickly. Sub walking for jogging – or even speed walking – to feel the burn on winter days. - Dress Weather Appropriate
It’s time to wave goodbye to your favorite pair of summer shorts and say hello to some comfortable workout winter-wear. Dressing in layers is your best bet for keeping a good body temperature while working out during the winter. That way if you happen to get a little warm after increasing your intensity (see step 1), just peel off your outermost layer! Knowing that you’ll warm up, try to dress for weather that’s 20 degrees warmer than it currently is outside. Investing in something with sweat-wicking properties is also a good bet for the cold months. Finding a good wind jacket will also help you slice through the biting breezes of the winter season. If you need to improve your winter wardrobe, don’t worry, Scratch is here to help! Check out my fitness outerwear for the best discounts on jackets, sweatshirts, and more! - Use Hand Warmers
If your mittens or gloves just aren’t cutting the cold, hand warmers can be a great option. Chemical hand warmers are about the size of a credit card and come in small packages (you can pick them up at your local sports retail store or even drug store). Once torn, the chemicals produce heat. Not enough to burn you or cause any harm, but certainly enough to keep your hands warm inside your mittens while exercising outside. No reason to risk frostbite in the name of physical fitness.
So there you have it, three simple tricks to keep warm while working out in winter! If you have any tips of your own, feel free to post it on the caveman’s wall.