It's good news for runners this winter season—running in the cold weather is actually really good for you, experts have said.
Scientists at the Midwest Orthopaedics at RUSH have revealed five reasons why running in chilly temperatures can actually be highly beneficial.
"Cold weather doesn't have to force runners indoors and I encourage my patients to continue safely running outdoors," Dr. Joshua Blomgren, Midwest Orthopaedics at RUSH, and Aid Station Medical Captain for the Chicago Marathon said in a recent statement. "Exercise is medicine, even in the winter."
Blomgren notes it is not recommended to run in sub zero temperatures, and those running in the cold should take precautions and dress in appropriate layers.
Running in the Cold Is Easier
Although the prospect of a run may seem less appealing in the cold, the physical act of running is actually a lot easier when temperatures are low. In fact, cold weather is actually ideal for long distance running.
The warmer the weather, the more exertion on the body, Midwest Orthopaedics at RUSH reported. High temperatures can also increase cardiovascular and metabolic strain on the body while running.
Running in the heat can also cause wet heat loss—when your body releases heat by sweating—and dry heat loss—when the heat is released into the air, according to Women's Running magazine. Blood flow therefore will be concentrated on cooling the body rather than moving the muscles. This makes the act of running feel infinitely more difficult.
Cold Running Boosts Your Metabolism
Running in the cold can actually help boost your metabolism, the scientists at Midwest Orthopaedics at RUSH state. The metabolism slows down to preserve fat when a person is not exercising. But exposing the body to cold weather actually tricks the metabolism into working more quickly. This means that running in the cold can actually help a person loose more weight than if they were to run exclusively in the heat.
It Helps Your Mood
It's no secret that cold, dark weather can cause low mood, or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Exercise in any form increases serotonin and endorphins in the body, meaning it can help combat this.
SAD can also be caused by the lack of sunlight in the winter—running outside may allow the body more time to soak in the daylight throughout the day.
Running in the Cold May Burn More Calories
Running will help maintain a healthy weight in winter, especially during the festive season. Previous research has already shown that it is a great form of exercise for burning calories, and can also lead to a longer life.
Runners have a 25 to 40 percent reduced risk of dying young, according to Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases.
Converts Fat in the Body
The body carries all different kinds of fat, the main two being brown and white. White fat is usually unwanted, while brown fat is made up of metabolic tissue which helps to burn calories.
Exposing the body to cold temperatures can actually help convert this unwanted white fat into brown fat, according to Midwest Orthopaedics at RUSH.
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