Physiological Benefits of Cold Weather Workouts

            With summer coming to a close, cooler weather will soon prevail. But with the changing of the weather, does that mean that your workouts will change as well? There is more to it than Rocky training in a meat locker—there are physical differences for your body when you alter the temperature in which you exercise.

•    A Change in Fat. A 2014 study performed by the University of Kentucky indicated some clinical signs “that simply contending with cold weather encourages the body to transform everyday white fat—specifically belly fat and thigh fat—into calorie-burning “beige fat.” People have more genetic markers for brown fat in the winter than they do during the warmer months and that could signal slightly more calorie burn in the winter as the body insulates itself.”[1]

•    Higher Calorie Burn. Although everyone’s individual caloric burn varies from person to person, exercising in cold weather might give you a boost. “As the body works harder to regulate its core temperature among the elements, you'll burn a few more calories during your wintry workout compared to one conducted indoors.”[2]

•    A Mental Boost. According to a 2004 study from Finland, “winter swimming combatted tension and fatigue and improved overall well-being among 36 middle-aged adults. Cold-water exposure seems to activate the central nervous system and stimulate the circulation of hormones that may promote improved mood and energy.”[3]

            This is not to say that exercising in cold weather does not come with its own challenges. There are the obvious risks of hypothermia and frostbite, as well as extra strain on your lungs due to the colder air. Talk to your physician before beginning any new exercise regime, regardless of temperature, and be sure to hydrate no matter the weather!

[1] Rodio, Michael. "Hot Workouts Vs. Cold Workouts: What’s Scientifically Proven to Work Better." Men’s Journal, 14 June 2018, https://www.mensjournal.com/health-fitness/hot-workouts-vs-cold-workouts-whats-scientifically-proven-work-better/.

[2] Hall, Alena. "7 Big Benefits Of Exercising Outside This Winter" Huffington Post, 7 December 2017, https://www.huffpost.com/entry/working-out-in-cold-weather_n_6276544.

[3] Heid, Markum. “The surprising benefits of exercising in cold weather.” Quartzy, Quartz, 14 November 2018, https://qz.com/quartzy/1463490/the-surprising-benefits-of-exercising-in-cold-weather/.