Running Through the Cold
Visibility is crucial for running in any kind of weather. With fewer hours of sunlight during the winter months, being visible becomes more of a challenge. If you are fortunate enough to find some daylight time to run, choose clothes that are in contrast to your surroundings. For snowy days, bright clothes work well because they provide contrast and attract warm sunlight. Reflective clothing is a must for running at dusk or in the dark so drivers or others on the road can see you.
It Is All About Layers
Today’s fabrics make it easier than ever to run in the cold. The best approach for cold weather running is to dress in layers. Layers work in two ways. They trap heat to keep the body warm, and they can be removed as conditions change. Runner-friendly garments have zippers and vents to let out excess heat, and they can be easily folded and carried. One thing to keep in mind—it is okay to be a little chilly as you start your workout because once you start running you will warm up quickly.
Running specialists recommend dressing in three layers. The first layer should be made of a wicking material (eg, polyester, silk, polypropylene) so that moisture is drawn away from the body. Avoid cotton since it absorbs and holds moisture in, increasing the chance for chills. The next layer is the insulation layer, the one that keeps you warm. Fleece is a good choice for this middle layer. For the final layer, look for windproof, waterproof materials (eg, GOR-TEX, nylon).
The same layering technique is recommended for hands and feet. For hands, wear a glove liner followed by an outer mitten or glove. To keep your feet warm, try an inner polypropylene sock followed by a heavy wool sock. Keep in mind that this doubling up may make your running shoes too small. If your feet feel constricted, opt for a larger pair.
Finally, since body heat can be lost through your head, make sure to wear a hat. Consider choosing one made of wind-block fleece for warmth and protection.
Be Safe
A few safety measures go a long way. Before running, tell someone where you are going and how long you expect to take. Always carry identification when you run. Some runners write their names, phone numbers, and blood type of the inside sole of their shoes. You might also want to consider bringing a small amount of cash (in case you need a cab home), a cell phone, and a whistle.
Icy trails or roads should be avoided. When running in snow, use shoes with “nubs” for better traction. Plan your run so the wind is at your back on your return home since built-up sweat can cause a chill.
Avoid Hypothermia and Frostbite
Hypothermia and frostbite are the two most common cold weather dangers. Some runners opt for inside workouts during cold weather. But, if you decide to run outside, make sure you take additional measures so that no skin is exposed (eg, wear a face mask) and seek medical attention if you develop symptoms of frostbite or hypothermia.
Hypothermia occurs when the body’s temperature drops below normal. Hypothermia may present with symptoms of intense, involuntary shivering and difficulty doing complex tasks. It progresses to violent shivering, slurred speech, and loss of fine motor coordination. In the most severe and life threatening form of hypothermia, shivering stops, heart rate slows, and loss of consciousness can occur.
Frostbite is when part of the body freezes—most typically seen on the fingers, toes, ears, and face. Frostbite starts with an itching or burning sensation, then the area becomes numb. Skin appears white, cold, and hard and then turns red and swollen. Severe frostbite causes the skin to blister and harden.
Be Prepared
Running in cold weather requires good preparation. Cold air makes your body work harder, so make sure you eat enough calories to keep your muscles working.
If you have exercise-induced asthma , your symptoms may be exacerbated in cold weather. Ask your doctor if running in cold weather is safe for you.
Dehydration is a danger even in winter because the dry, cold air increases water loss through breathing. Adjusting for the conditions with the proper clothing and running shoes are essential. Listen to your body and keep alert for signs and symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia. Above all, enjoy the freedom and serenity that running can bring.
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/
American College of Sports Medicine.
http://www.acsm.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology
www.csep.ca/
Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index_e.html/
References:
Brown RJ. The weather outside is frightful, cold weather running. Marathon Training website. Available at: http://www.marathontraining.com/articles/art_5th.html . Accessed July 24, 2008.
Curtis R. Outdoor action guide to hypothermia and cold weather injuries. US Centers for Disease Control website. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/nasd/docs/d001201-d001300/d001216/d001216.html . Accessed July 24, 2008.
Martin J. Hypothermia. EBSCO Health Library website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/thisTopic.php?marketID=15topicID=81. Updated September 30, 2009. Accessed Accessed July 13, 2010.
Tips for a safe running program. American Academy of Othropaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00132 . Accessed July 24, 2008.
Last reviewed July 2010 by Brian Randall, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © 2007 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.