By Megan Isola
Image by fxquadro on Freepik
One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is improving fitness levels or losing weight. Unfortunately, New Year’s happens towards the middle of winter, when people are less likely to get up and move around, especially outside. However, even though the weather outside is frightful, that doesn’t mean you have to delay your resolution; you just need the right clothing to keep you warm while you work out in snow or cold weather.
Since cold weather can affect your muscles and make you feel like snuggling up with the warmest blanket inside, you must find the right workout gear to help you stay motivated while supporting your fitness goals. Wondering what workout gear you need this winter? Keep reading.
Best Workout Gear
If you want to stay warm in the winter, you’ll need to layer your clothing. Unfortunately, wearing clothes that are too tight or heavy can restrict movement, so you don’t want to wear your long winter coat when going for a run in the winter. Instead, consider layering your stretchy, breathable workout clothes to protect yourself from the elements without restricting movements.
Image by ASphotofamily on Freepik (Click to enlarge)
Additionally, try to remember that just because something is bulky doesn’t mean that it’s necessarily warmer. Instead, find warm materials that can wick away moisture to keep you dry under all your layers as you work out. Here’s our list of the best workout gear for this winter:
Running Shoes
Well, of course, you need women's running shoes! However, during the winter, the pavement can get much slipperier, so you may need a different pair of shoes, one that’s designed with winter in mind. Winter running shoes should offer you comfort, support, and traction. Since you may be running on wet snow, ice, and salt, you need shoes that can withstand these dangerous elements to prevent slips and falls that can injure you.
When looking for running shoes for winter, always check the grip and traction. You should also look for waterproof shoes if you’re running in the snow since getting your feet wet in winter can be dangerous.
Fleece Joggers
Everyone needs a pair of comfy joggers for running, but the materials you wear matter in winter. Fleece is not only comfortable, but it’s warm. Fleece joggers will prevent your muscles from getting too cold and can keep you cozy even on the coldest of runs.
Image by Freepik
Long Sleeve Tees
Long sleeve tees are a necessary item for layering to keep your entire upper body warm, especially your arms. When looking for long sleeve shirts, try ones with relaxed silhouettes and thumb holes to layer with other forms of outerwear.
Winter Leggings
Winter leggings are designed with extra layers of material to keep your legs warm in cold weather. Typically lined with fleece, these leggings are great for yoga, running, or any outdoor exercise you can think of during the winter. Depending on where you shop, you may also be able to find fleece-lined leggings with pockets for all your exercise accessories.
Ear Warmers
Protecting your ears is just as important as protecting the rest of your body in the winter. Ear warmers will keep your ears warm and toasty while protecting them from strong winds that can make your entire head cold.
Winterized Hoodies
Most people already have a few hoodies in their closets. However, are your hoodies winterized? Winterized hoodies are made with additional materials to keep you warm and dry during the winter. Of course, since hoodies are often made of cotton, they may absorb snow, so it’s best to have another layer on top of them to prevent yourself from getting too wet when it snows out.
Photo: Pexels
Bodysuits
Make layering easy with a base layer bodysuit when you need extra coverage. Bodysuits are ideal for the coldest weather and can be worn under the rest of your workout attire to keep you warm and cozy without restricting movement.
Winter Jacket
Winter jackets are a must if you plan to brave the elements for a workout. However, some jackets aren’t designed for exercise. Long, tight, and thick winter coats restrict movement. If you need a winter workout jacket, look for something that only goes to your waist to avoid restricting movement in your legs. In addition, if you layered correctly, you can wear something that’s lightweight and offers water resistance to keep snow from sinking into your cotton clothing to make you even wetter and colder.
Photo: Pexels
Puffer Vests
If you wear long sleeve layers, you may not have to wear a winter coat at all, especially if you keep moving while working out outside. Puffer vests give you the same great insulating ability as a complete winter coat, but you won’t have to deal with restricting movement in your arms.
A Winter Hat
While ear warmers can protect your ears, your head can get extremely cold while exercising during the winter. Since your head sweats just like the rest of your body, the moisture can attract the cold to your head, making you feel uncomfortable and even producing headaches. Instead, you can wear a winter hat to protect your entire head and ears from freezing temperatures.
Photo: Pexels
Winter Socks
While winter workout shoes are designed to keep your feet warm and dry, cold air has a way of reaching small spaces, even in your shoes. You should always wear socks with tennis shoes to absorb sweat and prevent odors, but you may choose to swap your cool, thin socks for something thicker and warmer this winter. Consider trying wool socks when working out in the winter. Wool is a great material for winter clothing because it can wick away moisture while keeping you warm. When you’re running in the winter, odds are you’re sloshing in puddles, and through snow, so you’ll need an extra layer to regulate your temperature.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right winter workout gear for you depends on the weather. If you live somewhere with dangerously low temperatures, it’s important to know when not to work out outside. Unfortunately, you can’t cover your entire body with clothing, so working out in the winter can be dangerous no matter what you wear. Use your best judgment before exercising in the winter to prevent hypothermia and frostbite.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
She enjoys going to concerts, trying new restaurants, and hanging out with friends.
No comments:
Post a Comment