With temperatures approaching freezing, putting on your running shoes, a jacket, and a hat and heading out for a run might not sound very appealing to most people.
Except for passionate runners who never give up their favorite activity even during the winter months, training at home or in the gym definitely seems like a better option.
However, running in the cold has some unexpected benefits for our bodies. Even though it might not seem the most pleasant at first glance, there are several reasons why winter can be a great time to add jogging to your fitness routine.
Experts say running in the cold is actually healthier for our bodies than running in the heat, and some of the benefits include burning more calories and combating seasonal affective disorder (often called “winter blues”).
Running in the Cold Can Boost Your Metabolism
So, whilst your body does warm right up when your out pounding the pavement, research suggests that being out in the cold itself can actually give a bit of a kick to your metabolism as well.
A type of thermogenesis that gets your body burning calories like crazy and generally keeps you running at a higher tempo, thanks to the activation of special fat tissues called brown fat that hoover up excess calories rather than storing them like “normal” fat.
Related: 4 Tips for Burning More Fat Through Thermogenesis
Positive Effect on Mental Health
The term “runner’s high” describes the euphoric feeling runners get during and after jogging several kilometers due to the release of endorphins and endocannabinoids, which reduce stress and promote a sense of happiness.
This feeling occurs regardless of the season, but in the winter months it can have an even more positive effect, especially for people who suffer from winter blues — a kind of depression that occurs in autumn and winter when exposure to natural sunlight is reduced.
Also, more frequent exposure to cold helps our bodies get accustomed to it, causing the body to gradually reduce the stress response to winter weather conditions.
How to Prepare for Running in the Cold
1. Check the weather forecast — running in rain or snow if you’re a beginner definitely won’t be a pleasant experience, and you risk injury if you don’t have suitable shoes. So it’s best to choose a day without precipitation.
2. Experts advise that you won’t need as heavy clothing as for a leisurely winter walk. Dress as if the temperature were about 10 degrees higher than it actually is, because your body will naturally heat up as you run.
3. Warm up briefly before leaving the house.
4. Wear layered clothing that protects the body but still allows movement and breathability. Thermal running tights, a long-sleeve moisture-wicking shirt, and a windproof and waterproof jacket are essential.
5. Avoid cotton, which absorbs sweat, stays wet and cools you down.
6. It’s also important to wear gloves or a sleeve that covers your hands, as cold is felt most in the extremities.
7. A face mask is a good idea, because cold air can cause coughing and a dry throat
