Running during cold weather might seem unappealing to some, but recent research suggests that it has several benefits over running in warmer conditions. According to Dr. Joshua Blomgren of Midwest Orthopaedics at RUSH in Chicago, cold weather running can be advantageous for fat burning, weight loss, and overall health.
In colder temperatures, the body experiences less heat stress, making winter jogs potentially easier than summer ones. High body temperatures during exercise can lead to increased exertion and strain on the heart, lungs, and metabolism. Winter running can counteract the body’s natural tendency to slow metabolism in cold weather, which usually serves to preserve fat. This slowdown is halted by cold weather jogging, aiding in maintaining a healthy weight.
Additionally, exercising in the cold can help convert “bad” white fat into “good” brown fat. Unlike white fat, which can cause inflammation and insulin resistance, brown fat is a metabolic tissue that aids in calorie burning.
However, Dr. Blomgren advises caution for those running in cold conditions. He recommends dressing in appropriate layers using sweat-wicking fabrics, wearing head coverings, drinking plenty of water, and being cautious of icy paths. Runners should also cover their nose and mouth to warm the air they breathe and stay indoors during extreme sub-zero temperatures to avoid frostbite
