Baby, It’s Cold Outside!

Don’t know about you, but I’ve been a little cold recently. Working out this time of year definitely gives me a similar sense of accomplishment that a solid workout in the middle of a sweltering summer day does. We warriors of the winter bundle up, brave the biting blasts and boldly check another hour of healthy movement off our daily to-do lists. Filing our lungs with the crisp air exhilarates and enlivens, then we come home to a warm shower and, if you’re me, a warm bowl of oatmeal and green tea.

Our friends and spouses may think we’re crazy for running around when the wind chill has dropped into the 20s and, admittedly, that adds to the sense of accomplishment. I braved it. I did it. Yes, I was one of those crazies out there, and today I accomplished something good for me.

But if you’re headed to the track in the biting cold, there’s no reason to not look good doing it.

It’s a good idea to come up with a personal outwear threshold that works for you. Personally, as soon as the temps dip into the high 50s, I’m donning my gloves. Low 50s and you’ll probably see me covering my ears and wearing pants. Add a long sleeve shirt or half-zip and likely a fleece once we get into the high 40s. Because I arrive at workout freezing, warm up and then may get cold again due to the wind or a break, I like the flexibility afforded by hoods and zippered armpit vents. Armpit vents? Yes. I’m a fan.

When the winds get really fierce, a windbreaker or windproof jacket is essential, and I’m even considering the appeal of a neck gaiter. Nerdy? Perhaps. Warm face? Yes please. If you’re interested in shelling out the cash, I think a jacket or vest made with down is a great option because down is a natural insulator, helping the body maintain a constant temperature, despite body temperature changes. Now you know what’s on my Christmas list…

So if you’re struggling to get motivated to keep up your workout commitment when there’s frost on the windows and your bed is extra warm, perhaps you ought to treat yourself to a piece or two of insulating gear to so you can fight the frigidity looking fierce and feeling fiery…