CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Starting off the new year, you may be inspired to get off the couch and get moving more. This could mean running or jogging in the cold. Let's raise that Weather IQ on running in the cold.
Running in the cold and the ideal temperature:
Being cold is subjective where people tolerate the cold differently. Our bodies naturally regulate our core temperatures. When you are running you generate heat which makes colder temperatures feel more tolerable compared to when you are standing still.
For example, 45 degrees may be considered a cold day for many who live in the Carolinas, but some studies have stated that 45 degrees is actually the ideal marathon temperature. Temperatures in the 40s minimalize our bodies efforts to maintain its core temperature. This leaves us more energy to maintain faster paces.
The disadvantages:
- Running in cold air can also trigger bronchospasms which cause asthma-like coughing and wheezing that make breathing more difficult.
- Elevated blood pressure in the cold could lead to heart attacks, especially in older people or those with underlying heart conditions.
- When you run you create your own wind chill. Making your extremities feel colder.
- Running in sub-freezing temperatures increases the chance for frost bite. But this happens more commonly when it is below zero not just below freezing.
The Advantages:
- When we have our first real frigid day of the season, our bodies spark their fight or flight reflexes. Blood moves inward from your skin to preserve your core. The more you run outside, the more our bodies adapt and get used to winter's cold faster.
- Running and exercise causes levels of a chemical that increases brain cell growth which releases the "feel good" hormone dopamine. This is helpful for those suffering from seasonal affective disorder during the colder months.
- By running in the sunshine, it increases the production of vitamin D which regulates our serotonin. When this is normal, it makes you happy but when it is low, it can lead to depression.
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When running in the cold, dress in layers and make sure to limber up. Stretching is super important when running in the cold since your muscles can tighten up. Lastly, stay hydrated, no matter the temperature.
WCNC Charlotte’s Weather IQ YouTube channel gives detailed explainers from the WCNC Charlotte meteorologists to help you learn and understand weather, climate and science. Watch previous stories where you can raise your Weather IQ in the YouTube playlist below and subscribe to get updated when new videos are uploaded.