Dressing for the occasion is especially important when exercising during winter as the right choice of clothing can allow you to stay warm and comfortable even in the most challenging kinds of weather.
Use A Baselayer
Baselayers act as a second layer of skin which helps insulate your body and keep the heat in, baselayers are also made out of moisture-wicking materials which draw sweat and moisture from your skin; this can leave you feeling more comfortable during your exercise routine. This is a far superior option to using a regular cotton t-shirt that can quickly become drenched in sweat, meaning that you will not be able to use it again until you wash it. Baselayers on the other hand can be worn several times before they need to be put in the wash, meaning that they are more convenient for people who regularly exercise.
Learn To Layer
Learning to layer is a highly practical way of managing your body temperature in any environment you find yourself in. You can simply add layers of clothing when you are feeling cold and take layers off if you feel too warm. When it comes to exercising outside during winter layering can offer even more noticeable temperature protection. There are 3 different types of layers including:
- Base Layer: As mentioned above baselayers provide a fantastic level of thermal comfort whilst wicking sweat away from your body during your exercise routines.
- Mid-Layer: Mid-layers are an additional layer to keep you warm such as a t-shirt or hoodie. If you are wearing a baselayer you can take off your t-shirt or hoodie and store it in a bag that you bring during your run.
- Outer Layer: Coats and windproof jackets are both examples of outer layer clothing, they provide thermal protection and protect the rest of your clothes from the elements.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Wear Stretchy, comfortable clothing such as a pair of heavyweight tracksuits for a mixture of warmth and comfort during the winter months, meaning you have a greater level of movement when you are exercising which can make your exercise routine that much easier! It is however important to make sure that the cuffs of your trousers fit closely to your legs to reduce the chances of you tripping over elongated cuffs.
Do Your Research And Read The Reviews
Before you make your purchase you should ensure that you are buying from a quality supplier with good reviews. Reviews are particularly important as you can access other people’s experiences with the product and read what they have to say. They may mention something within their review that may alter your decision to purchase that item.
Don’t Forget Accessories
Bringing accessories such as a hat a gloves is a good option during the colder months, particularly as these accessories are easy to carry and can provide a high warmth benefit when put on. Ensuring that your hands remain warm when in cold environments is important as people lose more heat from their hands and feet than any other part of their body, therefore by wearing gloves, you can reduce the heat your body loses. Another handy accessory that you may not immediately consider is a pair of running goggles, which protect your eyes from the rain and can protect your eyes from UV rays during summer.
Windproof Jacket
Windproof jackets are a good option for running due to their slimmed-down nature compared to regular winter jackets as they provide warmth without being over encumbering during exercise. Windproof jackets are often waterproof to protect you from rain or snow, so it is worth making sure that the windproof jacket you are going to purchase is waterproof particularly if you are exercising outdoors in winter.
Ensure You Have A Good Pair Of Running Shoes
If you have running shoes already you should ensure that there are not any holes in your shoes before you go running in wet environments, you can check this by pouring some water outside and walking over the patch of water with your running shoes. If you find yourself needing a new pair of running shoes it is often worth it to buy a quality running trainer if you are planning on making a habit of running frequently, quality running shoes can boost your performance and reduce your risk of injury.
Headband
Wearing a headband can offer protection for your head and ears from the cold, this additional protection for sensitive areas such as ears can make the decision easier to put on your running gear and get running even during colder weather.
Conclusion
Wearing appropriate clothing when exercising outside can make the whole experience more comfortable and enjoyable, which can mean that you can justify to yourself why you should not skip workouts and power through whatever the weather!
