Running on cold days - what you need to know
Especially in the cold weather, running is an easy way to improve your mental and physical well-being. We have collected tips for you on running when the temperatures drop.
Even in winter there is no excuse not to put on your running shoes and get outside. After all, this is great way to do something for yourself and boost your health. Keeping active helps to beat autumn and winter blues and also prevents springtime fatigue. However, it's important that you choose the right pace and clothing. On cold days, your metabolic rate is increased so, in other words, you burn fat more quickly. This is definitely a plus in the winter months when we tend to indulge more.
Put a smile on your face
Endurance sports such as hiking and jogging boost the body's production of serotonin. This happiness hormone is responsible for activating the body and improving our general mood.
There is only unsuitable clothing
We have all heard the saying before: There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. This is also true when it comes to running.
What to wear to run in winter
Modern fibres and fabrics act as windbreakers and keep the cold air away from our bodies. The body is prevented from cooling down as the heat it generates is kept in. Layering is all-important and you should aim to wear two to three thin layers. The resulting layers of air between the items of clothing also help retain additional heat.
A hat and gloves are vital when the temperature drops. The head and hands are especially sensitive to the cold and this is where the most heat is lost.
What a lot of people get wrong
One more tip before setting off: You will often see people parking up, getting out of their cars, and getting ready to run by stretching and bending.
Do not stretch out cold muscles
You shouldn't drive an engine which has not been warmed up at high speed straight away. And the same goes for the body, especially the muscles. Never stretch cold muscles as the risk of injury is far too great. You also shouldn't stretch out in the cold after running as the risk of catching a cold is then too high.
Slow it down!
On colder days deliberately start off running at a slower pace. Ideally you should have the feeling that you are actually running far too slowly. Warm up by running and then slowly increase your speed. After all, your inner organs also need time to get used to the cold and often very moist air.
