Brr!  Oh baby it’s cold out there!  But we can’t let the prospect of exercising in the cold derail our success!  So what’s a Mom to do?  Either move inside or bundle up in layers!  I do both depending on how cold it is and my schedule.  Sometimes I don’t have time to get to the gym so I need to go outside, plus sometimes I enjoy being out in the cold.  Here is how I dress to ensure that I’m prepared.

      Cold Weather Layers

•                 Wicking:  For the layer closest to the skin use some type of clothing that wicks sweat away such as Nike Dri Fit or cool max.
•                 Insulating :  For the middle layer choose an insulating layer to provide warmth such as fleece.
•                 Wind Stopping:  The outer layer choose a material that blocks the wind such as Gore-Tex® or another water resistant/breathable fabric.
•                 Extremities:  Gloves, hat or ear band.  I like the thin running gloves and I usually use an ear band unless it is super cold. 

      I choose different combinations based on the temperature and type of exercise.  If I am walking I need a little more clothing than if I am running.  You don’t always need all 3 layers.  As your warm-up you can remove layers so that you don’t get too sweaty.  Then at the end you can layer back up during the cool down so that you don’t get too cold.

      I also tend to warm up and cool down inside when it is cold outside.  If it is just too cold you can move indoors.  Keep motivation high for exercising in the cold with the right workout gear.

     Any gear that is a must for you when exercising in the cold?