-
UCF physicians are Orlando's top docs.
With the holiday season and the start of the new year, you can count on experiencing some cold weather. However, just because the temperature starts to drop, you don’t have to put aside your outdoor workouts for the winter. Proper clothing can reduce cold weather-related risks and maintain your core body temperature.
Layers
The innermost layer of clothing you wear should be made of a material like lightweight polyester or polypropylene to take moisture away from your skin. The second layer is the insulating layer, and should be polyester fleece or wool. The outermost third layer should be rain- and wind-repellent. It should only be worn if it is raining, snowing or very windy outside, because it can trap sweat and not allow for proper evaporation.
Protect your feet
When exercising in cold weather, dry, warm feet are very important for decreasing the risk of a cold-weather injury and preventing blisters. Your socks should contain wool or synthetic fibers with moisture-wicking capability. Cotton socks keep moisture next to your skin, so you should avoid wearing them when it’s cold out.
Keep your head covered
To decrease heat loss, cover your head with a hat or helmet, depending on the type of exercise you are performing.
Cover your hands
Wear mittens instead of gloves if your outdoor activities don’t require finger dexterity. This also helps your hands retain heat.
—
Weekly Health Tips are brought to you by UCF Health, the College of Medicine’s physician practice. Offering primary and specialty care under one roof, UCF Health treats patients age 16 and up in primary care and age 18 and up for specialty care. Most major insurance plans are accepted. Two locations are now open: the original in East Orlando at Quadrangle and University boulevards just blocks from the main UCF campus, and the newest one in Medical City at Narcoossee Road and Tavistock Lakes Boulevard. Information for both facilities can be found at UCFHealth.com, or call (407) 266-DOCS to schedule an appointment.
Subscribe to Weekly Health Tips
Get Health Tips from UCF Health in your email each week! Subscribe here.
Post Tags
- active active wear clothing cold cold weather exercise health healthy lifestyle heat layers outdoor outdoor workouts outdoors weather winter working out