Cold Weather Tips to Consider

Winter is almost here! While there are no ice zombies to fight, there is the cold weather to battle. As temperatures drop people’s mindsets must change when it comes to exercising and physical rehabilitation. It is no longer feasible to run around in a tank top and shorts. For those who don’t want to curl up into a ball and hibernate, here are a few cold weather tips to keep healthy this winter season:

Easing Joint Stiffness

With the warmth slowly fading away and the cold coming in, many people with arthritis become more prone to joint pain. However, it’s not just people with arthritis, anyone could start feeling joint stiffness. This is because when the body gets cold there is less blood circulation. When there is not a lot of blood circulating through the joints, they become stiff. Therefore, staying warm during the winter time is critical. When going outside be sure to dress warmly and wear layers. Now is a good time to bust out those wool socks, scarfs, beanies and winter jackets.

Alternative Exercises

Even though it is cold outside, this doesn’t mean you have to stop exercising and staying healthy. Although it may not be ideal to go outside for a run, you may want to consider running on a treadmill inside. Running on a treadmill might not be as exciting as going for a run outside but it is a lot safer and warmer. Focusing on other muscle groups can be a great change up from a normal routine when the seasons change. Instead of running you could alternatively maintain your cardiovascular fitness with indoor swimming or going to a yoga class. Yoga is a great way to stay limber and pump your blood. This exercise reduces the risk of joint stiffness and keeps you healthy.

Dress for the Cold

Though running in the cold is not ideal, if it is a must there are some things to consider. Dress as if it is 10-20 degrees warmer than it actually is outside because your body does heat up as you run. Some appropriate attire to use when running in the cold is insulated leggings and jackets. It is not appropriate to wear a puffy jacket while running. While a big jacket may keep you warm it is not great to run in. It is much better to wear something that is skin tight, so the body heat does not escape and stays close to keep the body warm.

To fight the cold weather, it is always a good idea to dress warmly and wear layers if you plan to walk outside. If you can, try to stay indoors and work on other muscle groups when you want to exercise.

For more cold weather tips on how to battle the winter weather, click here.

Article written by William Graves.