Cold Weather Exercising

The Health Benefits of Cold Weather Exercising. 

Exercising in cold weather can be challenging and often requires you to push yourself out of your comfort zone. But that little bit of extra effort required to get moving on the cold, rainy days or dark, dreary nights can be extremely good for you, and improve your physical and mental health drastically – you just need to take a few extra precautions!

Amongst many other benefits, exercising in cold weather can; help you build mental resilience; improve your cardiovascular fitness; boost your mood by releasing endorphins and help relieve symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression.

In the colder months, you’re more susceptible to seasonal depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder. It’s important to take measures to combat these feelings, and exercise can be an extremely rewarding outlet – along with eating local, seasonal foods, getting enough sunlight (and vitamin D) and ensuring you get enough good quality sleep.

Exercising in cold weather encourages your body to burn more fat, which speeds up your metabolism meaning you’re likely to burn more calories during exercise. Keeping a fit and healthy lifestyle in winter also benefits your immune system – exercising in winter can help keep your immune system in tip-top condition, which has never been more important after the last few years!

Exercising in cold weather opens up new opportunities to get out of your comfort zone. Running, paddle boarding and swimming all come with the additional challenge of a cold environment – especially swimming! But there’s beauty and tranquillity found on the water in winter, especially on the calmer days. Wild swimming, surfing and paddle boarding in winter are excellent ways to stay fit and healthy, whilst embracing the beauty of nature.

It's important to take extra precautions, however, when exercising in winter. Keep yourself well hydrated, watch out for symptoms of hypothermia and it’s a good idea to buddy up, especially when out on the water. 

It may take a bit of extra effort to exercise in cold weather, but I promise you, it’s worth it. 

If you're looking to take up a new cold water sport, our bright and fun paddle boards are designed to encourage you to get out there. Check out our boards here. 

By Matt from SOUL CHOW.

Read the full article on cold weather exercising here.