Walking or Running in the Cold

Walking or Running in the Cold by Flo Mina

As winter freezes us over, many of us go into hibernation with our workouts. We shouldn’t have to sacrifice all the hard work we’ve done just because it’s a little chilly outside. Today, many vendors such as Asics and Nike have improved workout winter apparel to keep us not only warmer but also drier at the same time.
The major dilemma that most us have when walking/running in the cold is staying warm enough but at the same time not letting the sweat soak our clothing. We are so concerned about staying warm that we layer our favorite warm clothing that when we get home we’re drowning in our own sweat.
The reason is that most of us don’t think about what type of fabrics would better suit working out in the cold. Unfortunately, cotton is our worst choice because of its lack of ability to pull moisture off your body therefore; our shirts or sweats are drenched when we’re done working out. This is a dreadful combination when working out in the cold, because your body stays colder because the perspiration doesn’t have the ability to dry. Just imagine getting out of the swimming pool on a cool afternoon and the wind blows on you and you get the sudden chill factor. Well, when you’re clothing isn’t allowing evaporation of the sweat you’re basically walking/running 10-15 degrees lower than the real temperature outside, therefore causing havoc on your immune system.
In this case, synthetic fibers woven in these clothing would be best. Synthetic material allows four times or more for moisture to move through the clothes, where cotton only has one channel to let moisture move through. These special clothing made by top manufactures also have temperature control to keep your body warmer but at the same time drier.
So, this winter remember to visit your local specialty running shoe store and get walking/running apparel that will have moisture management material clothing that keep you warm and drier. Don’t let your walking/running regimen suffer because of winter and continue your success to be FIT.

Basic clothing for running/walking in the cold is:
1. Light to medium weight jacket used as a shell with or without a hood
2. Moisture wicking undershirt or long sleeve
3. Moisture wicking running/walking gloves
4. Moisture wicking socks and hat or beanie
5. Moisture wicking running/walking tights/pants

More Information at Runners Lane, 661-260-3368. Located on the corner of Bouquet and Soledad behind Del Taco. www.runnerslane.com