Question:
I always have the best of intentions to get out and active in winter, but my motivation seems to drop with the temperature. How can I make sure I stay warm despite the weather?
Answer:
It can be tempting to hibernate indoors over the winter months, but you'll survive and enjoy the season a lot more if you get out and active. The first step is dressing for the weather so elements don't sabotage your efforts. There are three key layers to consider:
- Wicking - first layer that sit close to the skin to keep moisture and cold away
- Warmth - the second layer that insulates the body to keep the warmth in
- Wind-resistant - a light but durable layer that keeps wind and weather out
High-tech wear is a great investment in your comfort and one set will usually be enough to get you through the season.
Some additional things to think about before you head out in the cold:
- Be colourful - wear colourful or reflective fabrics to ensure you're visible
- Head - you can lose up to 40 per cent of body heat here so always wear a hat or headband
- Hands - many high-tech options that insulate while staying thin and flexible
- Feet - as much as 30 per cent of your body heat can be lost here as well
Question:
Is there anything I should do to change my workouts for the winter?
Answer:
If you're working out indoors, here's a few tips to keep your motivation and your intensity high:
Change your routine - change your workout to keep it fun and interesting
- Add more variety - fit in new exercises, machines or classes; try something completely new like rock-climbing, dancing, Martial Arts
- Be sport-specific - add some exercises to help get you ready for the ice and snow either for winter sports or winter living; squats, lunges, skating motions, stability challenges
Getting outside for activity will definitely help the winter months pass by more quickly. Here are some quick tips to keep your winter workouts safe and effective:
- Dress the part - layering and tech fabrics will help keep you warm and dry from head to toe
- Warm up longer - the colder it is, the longer you should take to warm your body up to
- Tread carefully - take shorter steps and be aware of the terrain weather you're walking, shovelling or heading for the slopes
- Stretch out - doing activity on unstable surfaces works different muscles and muscles differently which can cause tightness and/or fatigue; take a bit more time to stretch from head to toe
Question:
I don't feel as thirsty in the winter, do I really need to drink as much water in the winter?
Answer:
Very often, we drink less water in winter because cold alters our thirst sensation - potentially by up to 40 per cent! It can also be less convenient to carry a water bottle when wearing mitts or gloves.
We actually need to drink more water in the winter. We lose a great deal of water in cold weather due to respiratory fluid loss through breathing. Our bodies also work harder under the weight of extra clothing and you can actually burn twice as much energy (calories) doing activities on wet or snow-covered surfaces.
