When the weather outside is frightful, grab your running shoes and puffer jacket because it’s time to get active.
Wait, that’s not how it goes.
Well, for some folks, staying active is a priority, even during the coldest months of the year. So, if you’re an avid outdoor runner, if you love to work out in nature or maybe you’re just curious about exercising outside, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered (and thoroughly bundled up).
Here’s what you need to know about staying warm and safe while exercising outside in the winter:
Are there benefits when exercising outside in cold weather?
Looking at the frigid temperatures may make you want to switch to indoor exercise or just put off your workout all together, but before that happens, let’s see if there are any benefits to exercising outside.
According to some experts , exercising in cold weather “can bring you a variety of unexpected benefits,” so what are they?
Exercising in cold weather can:
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Strengthen your immune system. “You may be surprised to learn that your immune system actually works harder in the cold. A routine outdoor exercise routine can strengthen your immunity and keep you healthy,” as stated on the The Atlanta Spine Institute’s website .
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Improve cardiovascular function. When you work out in the cold, your cardiovascular system will put in some extra reps, too.
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Boost your mood. Bye, bye winter blues.
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Burn more calories. Doing a workout routine outside (even the same one you would do indoors), can burn more calories because your body works harder to maintain core body temperature.