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Now that the seasons are changing it is time to start thinking about cold weather workouts. Just because it is getting colder does not mean you need to move your workout indoors. You can continue your favorite outdoor workout by layering your clothing so that you stay warm and comfortable, even in the coldest and wettest weather.

The secret to layering is to keep heat trapped between the layers to keep you warm. Each layer has a specific function: moisture wicking, insulating and wind-breaking. Sometimes these functions are combined, but each layer has to provide at least one of these functions. If not, you’ll become wet from perspiration and eventually you’ll get cold.

Keep in mind that you don’t have to shop at specialty stores to get your workout wear. Target and Kohls have great selections for fitness clothing at very reasonable prices.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing your clothing for outdoor workouts:

• Avoid cotton. Cotton is a wonderful fabric-for T-shirts, dress shirts and sheets, NOT for working out! Cotton absorbs moisture so it becomes heavy and rough when it gets wet. When you choose it as your base layer, it is going to cling to you and be very uncomfortable.
• Choose moisture-wicking tops as your base layer. Your base layer should fit close to the skin so don’t pick a top that is loose or baggy.

• For your legs, you should choose moisture-wicking, close-to-the-skin tights. If it is dry and the temperature is above freezing, tights will suffice. However, in wet and really cold weather you will need a pair of waterproof and/or windproof pants.
  
  
• Wear a lightweight, breathable jacket over your base layer on days that the temperature is above freezing. Because they “breathe”, jackets allow the moisture that has been pulled off your skin by the base layer to escape. The breathability also keeps you from over-heating as your body warms up.
• When it’s very cold (or wet and windy) choose outerwear that is waterproof and windproof. You may also want to wear a fleece top for even more warmth as an insulating middle layer between the base layer and outer jacket.
• Remember to protect your feet too! Wear two pairs of socks for warmth-a thin pair that wick moisture next to your skin, covered by a thicker insulating outer sock.
• Don’t forget your head and hands—wear hats and gloves that will block the wind and keep you warm and dry.
• They are called layers for a reason! Take layers off and put them back on as needed. These fabrics are so lightweight that hats, gloves, even jackets can be easily shoved in pockets if you get warm.

Now that you are ‘in the know’ about what to wear, there is no excuse to skip your outdoor workout!

Go be fit!
Be healthy!
Be happy!

Written on Friday, October 12th, 2007 at 1:51 am
Filed under facts.
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