Tips for Winter Exercisers

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It may not be snowing a whole lot, but it's still winter.  What's the best way to dress? 

You want to be warm without sweating so much that you get a chill. The rule of thumb is to dress as if it is 20 degrees warmer.  You should be slightly cool when you start.  Think layers of technical fabrics, to wick sweat, with zippers at the neck and underarm area to vent air as you heat up.  Always assume you'll wear gloves or mittens and a hat.

Here are some temperature guidelines to keep in mind as you hit the pavement:

  • 30 degrees: 2 tops, 1 bottom. Long-sleeve base layer and a vest keep your core warm. Tights (or shorts, for polar bears).
  • 10 to 20 degrees: 2 tops, 2 bottoms. A jacket over your base layer, and wind pants over the tights.
  • 0 to 10 degrees: 3 tops, 2 bottoms. Two tops (fleece for the cold-prone) and a jacket. Windbreaker if desired.
  • Minus 10 to 0 degrees: 3 tops, 2 bottoms, extra pair of mittens, 1 scarf wrapped around mouth or a balaclava.
  • Minus 20 degrees: 3 tops, 3 bottoms, 2 extra pairs of mittens, 1 balaclava, sunglasses. Or...just stay inside and hit the treadmill or other indoor fitness equipment. 
HAPPY EXERCISING!

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