Winter doesn’t always prompt people to exercise but experts state running in the colder weather has tons of benefits. It could also be the thing that motivates you to do something other than sit on the couch watching television during the winter months.
Benefits of Running in Winter
There are three primary benefits of using the cooler weather to take in a run.
It gets you moving
Running is aerobic and people need exercise even in winter. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) states adults need an average of 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of intense
exercise weekly. Exercise helps your heart and keeps your muscles strong.
Running in winter improves metabolism
It’s been researched that cooler weather can boost your metabolism so you burn off more fat. That comes in handy when people bring out the holiday meals and desserts.
It’s a great way to burn calories
Studies from 2014 show that men who faced cooler temperatures overnight for 30 days had an increase in what is called “brown fat.” Brown fat burns calories. “White fat” stores fat so it’s good to have some cooler weather in your life. It’s uncertain how cooler weather affects women’s fat-burning capabilities.
Take Precautions
Anyone running in cooler weather should dress for it. That means hat, gloves, long pants and a jacket. Also, be aware that long periods of time exercising in cold weather puts stress on your lungs so you may want to make your runs shorter over the coldest months.
Be careful to not get hypothermia. Dress heavier for the coldest of days and pay attention to your body. Be sure to run with a partner in case you slip on ice or have some other emergency.
Conclusion
Running in winter weather can be exhilarating because you don’t get hot. It is a good way to get out of the house and you will be left with more energy than you would just sitting at home.
