OK, we know what you’re thinking - why the heck would you actually go outside and exercise in the cold of winter when there’s a nice, warm gym right down the road? We’re here to tell you that exercising outside in the winter is actually one of the best - if not THE best - thing you can do for your body. Many people might think that exercising in the cold isn’t so good for the body, but any fitness expert will tell you exactly the opposite. Below are the top reasons why it’s so good to exercise outside this winter! 

You’re going to burn more calories.

Now, this benefit is going to vary from person to person, but generally, you’re going to burn more calories when you exercise out in the cold, wintry weather. That’s because your body will be working overtime to keep your internal temperature at a safe level during your workout. 

Just bundle up appropriately with layers and moisture-wicking fabrics to give your body a little helping hand in keeping your temperature up! You should also bring along a reusable heat pack that can provide that extra bit of warmth you need during your outdoor workout. 

Your heart will be stronger than ever.

You’re not only going to be burning more calories when you take a run outside on a wintry morning! Cold weather makes the heart work harder to send blood throughout your body when the temperature drops. Make sure that your heart is healthy and strong enough already for this kind of stress. This will include taking a trip to the doctors to see if you’re healthy enough to start an outdoor exercise program. After a cold-weather exercise session, your indoor workouts might even seem easier thanks to that heart workout you had!

It’s going to force you to drink more water. Of course, anyone who works out regularly knows the importance of staying hydrated before, during, and after a workout. If you don’t drink plenty of water, your body just isn’t going to work as efficiently as it could.

This is, even more, the case when you exercise outdoors in the winter. When you sweat in the cold winter weather, that sweat will evaporate and disappear much more quickly than normal. Thanks to that, you might think that you’re sweating less, causing you not to drink enough water. If you keep this in mind, then you’ll be able to stay hydrated during your workout and even drink more water than normal - which is always good for you!

You can build a resistance to the cold.

One of the best parts of exercising outside this winter is that you can start building up a resistance to the cold weather. The more time you spend outside in the cold, the faster your body is going to get acclimated to that kind of climate.

Sure, the first time you head out for a workout in the cold winter morning - you’re going to the feel the burn (albeit a cold one!). However, the longer you spend outside exercising and the more often you do it, the easier it’s going to get over time. Just make sure that you dress properly to face the elements out there. Put on gloves, long-johns, hats, and other cold-weather workout gear to keep your body temperature steady. And don’t forget your same warm up and cool down routines to prevent injuries and sore muscles.  

Get out there this winter!

We weren’t kidding when we said working out in the winter is one of the best things you can do for your body! If you’re struggling to get out on that first workout, just know that your future-self is going to thank you for this. You’ll be stronger, leaner, and closer to your ultimate fitness goals when you get outside and exercise this winter.