Experience the invigorating effects of winter jogging in December and reap the many rewards, including boosted vitamin D levels, reduced stress, and improved cardiovascular health. By following a few simple tips, you can enjoy all that winter jogging has to offer.
How jogging can help you stay healthy during the winter months
Winter jogging rewards the mind and body in many ways. For the mind, it improves mood, reduce anxiety and depression, and boost self-esteem. For the body, it delivers the following key benefits:
- Improved physical fitness
Jogging is a great way to improve your overall physical fitness, including your cardiovascular health, muscle strength and endurance, and respiratory function.
- Boosted vitamin D levels
Jogging outdoors during the winter months can help to boost your vitamin D levels, which can be difficult to get enough of during this time of the year.
- Reduced stress
Jogging reduces stress by releasing endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters.
Winter jogging can also be a great way to spark your creativity and inspiration. As you move through the winter landscape, your mind may wander and you may find yourself coming up with new ideas or solutions to problems. So next time you’re feeling stuck or uninspired, lace up your running shoes and head out for a winter jog. You may be surprised at the spark of rejuvenation and inspiration you find.
When Is It Too Cold to Jog Outside?
Ready to crush your daily goals? Before you head out for a run, be sure to check the weather forecast.
According to experts, we should avoid doing physical activities outdoors at wind-chill temperatures below -18 degrees Celsius. That’s because when the wind whips around, it can steal heat from your body, making you feel colder than the actual temperature
If the weather is mild, don’t rush out the door just yet! There are a few things to do first.
Tips to Stay Healthy and Enjoy Your Run
Winter jogging can be a refreshing and invigorating experience, but it’s important to be prepared. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe and comfortable:
- Choose the right shoes
Look for shoes with good traction to grip the road or trail in cold, wet, or icy conditions.
- Dress in layers
The more you run outside, the less colder you will be. Dress in layers of breathable clothing so you can adjust to changing temperatures.
- Protect your hands and feet
Wear gloves and warm socks to keep your hands and feet from getting cold. You may also want to consider wearing a hat and a scarf.
- Breathe through your nose
Breathe both in and out through your nose. This will help to warm and humidify the air before it reaches your lungs.
- Warm up properly
Give yourself extra time to warm up before you start running and try to resist the urge to spring right away. Cold weather can tighten your muscles and make you more prone to injury.
- Stay hydrated
Even though you may not feel as thirsty in the winter, it’s important to stay hydrated. When you jog in cold weather, you still lose fluids through sweating and respiration.
- Cool down properly
Aim for a cool-down of about 5-10 minutes, and include a variety of dynamic stretches.
- Listen to your body
If you’re not feeling well, don’t force yourself to go for a run. Take a day or two to rest and recover, and come back to your running routine when you’re feeling better.
Bonus tip: The ErgoSportive™ App is a valuable tool for winter runners who want to improve their recovery, sleep, and performance. It provides 24/7 access to your health data and personalized recovery plans based on your individual needs. Explore all the benefits here.
