Winter Fitness
By: Fashionista B
Alright, Ladies and Gents, it’s time to admit it….it’s winter. Tis the season to stop exercising, eat some tasty foods to build up your winter fat stores and cuddle under cosy knit sweaters.
WRONG! Don’t be like every other Canadian, like my friend Chippy here…
It is more important than ever to get outside and continue your workout habits. I know, everyone preaches how important winter fitness is to your physical health, however, I know of a few more reasons you may want to continue your routine (or start running in the first place 😉 )
Because seriously, we Canadians deal with mental health issues all winter long! This is because shorter days mean less sunlight. This causes a vitamin D deficiency in all Canadians, which means more anxiety, depression, and SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder).
Winter Fitness is the best method to battle Canadian Winters. It is the only way to defeat all the rain, silt, sleet, snow, and ice that is thrown our way.
Now for MORE good news, exercising in cold weather:
- Burns more calories
- Increases your tolerance to cold weather
- Exposes you to fresher air reducing winter colds
- Increases your water intake
- Increases your endurance faster
- Exposes you to more sunlight increasing your Vitamin D
- Decreases your chances of SAD, anxiety and depression
- Increases your cardio health (ie your heart)
- And leaves you with a rockin’ body for the following Spring/Summer!
Ok, I want to exercise….. now what?
To start, find a good pair of running shoes and socks! With a nice running shoe and, more importantly, properly lined fleece socks, you are already halfway out the door.
Secondly, is the find the perfect workout layers. Let’s start with your shirt. You should actively look for a style of shirt called a Performance Shirt because these are made with materials that pull sweat away from the body and leave you warm. These shirts usually have a polyester base, like the Gildan 42400 and 42400L.
Thirdly, you will want a fleece layer. If the day is not too cold, this layer can be an autumn style jacket with waterproof shell and fleece interior. Look for Performance wear, like the Ash City North Series, because they are waterproof, but also warm up to -12.
Lastly, if it is a colder day, grab a full warm jacket and wear a fleece sweater between your coat and performance shirt to ensure you are properly attired.
So, don’t let winter stop you! Incorporate fun activities into your fitness, like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or winter ultimate frisbee!
