Hacks For Outdoor Winter Exercise

Adapting your outdoor workout routine for winter is tough, but not impossible. These winter exercise tips will help you stay warm and injury-free when working out in cold weather.

Warm Up Before Stepping Outside

Dynamic, active warm-ups that increase blood flow and temperature in the muscles help to decrease the risk of injury and make stepping into the cold less unpleasant.

Don’t Rely On Motivation

There are countless excuses to skip your workout in winter (holidays, runny nose, dark & cold, etc.). You’re more likely to stick to your routine if you anticipate lack of motivation and build fail-safes like accountability from a friend or a workout calendar with scheduled reminders.

Have A Backup Plan

In the event that it is truly not possible to exercise outside, don’t skip your workout altogether. Have a Plan B workout that you can do in your apartment, your room, or even in place. Work with what you’ve got.

Run In The Right Direction

The faster you move, whether running, cycling, or skiing, the higher the wind-chill factor — and your risk for hypothermia. To reduce this risk and keep your temperature up, start by heading into the wind so that by the time you lose body heat and get sweaty, the wind will be at your back, pushing you forward.

Protect Your Extremities

Cold is especially rough for the fingers, ears, nose, and toes. Gloves, headbands/hats, socks, and masks are key for comfort when it’s chilly outside.