How to Select Winter Workout Clothes for Layering

Just because the weather turns cold, doesn't mean you need to stop your workouts. Get out of hibernation and get moving. Not only will it help your physical state but also improve your mental and emotional state.

Exercising outside in the winter months can be fun, but can also be hazardous without the proper equipment and clothing. When participating in outdoor sports or workouts during the cold months it is important to remember layering. With a single layer heat escapes to the outside, but with layering the body heat is retained in pockets that are formed by the layers. Warm air remains and acts as insulation for your body.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• mittens
• hat
• socks
• tank top
• water-resistant jacket
• workout shoes
• workout pants
• long sleeve shirt

1. When selecting workout clothes, by-pass the cotton and choose instead man-made synthetics such as polyester blends that are specifically designed to wick moisture from the body. Sweat and water next to the body will provide a perfect situation for hypothermia to set in. Sweat is meant to cool the body and in the winter can over-cool the body.

2. Keep your midsection (or the core of your body warm) by layering a tank top under a long sleeve shirt and vest.

3. Be sure to cover your head and your hands. Much of your bodies heat will escape through the top of your head. A good hat will properly regulate your bodies temperature. For your hands select a nice pair of mittens - these allow your fingers to rub against the others and help warm each other. Separating the fingers in gloves removes the body heat.

4. A good pair of socks is a necessity. Personally I am most miserable when my feet and toes are cold. Check the sporting store for socks that are designed for the temperature you will be in. It is important to stay warm and wick away the sweat from your feet. However, being too warm will cause your feet to sweat even more making it more difficult for the sweat to be removed.

5. Winter can throw all sorts of curve balls at you. You've dressed properly to wick the sweat away from the body. But you must also think about water-resistant clothing to keep the snow, sleet, and freezing rain from soaking into your workout clothes.

6. Staying safe - When preparing for a workout in the cold weather, you need to think about your safety. Choose vest with reflective strips on front and back. Make sure the drivers can see you. Don't assume they will always see you - and better yet find an area that is away from vehicle traffic to do your workout if possible.

Tips & Warnings

• There are many clothing labels out there that are designed for outdoor workouts. Ask the sales assistant at your local sporting goods or department store.