Dr. George L. Dixon - "Talking Fitness"

EXERCISE and COLD WEATHER

You may think you are a "hot head", and indeed, you have one! 40% of your heat loss in cold weather is from your exposed, uncovered head and neck. Be sure your whole head, neck, ears and face are protected when you are active outdoors in cold weather. How cold? Even moist temperature in the 30's can produce some cold injury. Pay attention to the forecasts and your thermometer and protect yourself.

Winter is a grand and glorious time of the year. It can be hard on you as you enjoy its richness. Most of the animal kingdom (and plant!) is resting. You have your own snug place to exercise indoors, too, but it is a delight to be out in it well protected. Your body will use up lots of calories in its work to move you AND to stay warm.

How? Layer your clothing. Put a "wicking" type of polypropylene material next to your skin; then a warm woolen layer; and finally a wind and waterproof shell which is vented to allow your body moisture to escape.

As you bike or run outbound, do so against the wind. Add or subtract your moving speed to the wind chill factor. Return home with the wind as you will probably be sweating and can chill seriously.

Unprotected parts such as fingers, nose, nipples, penis, lips, ears, can all become frost-bitten. Vaseline can help protect uncovered parts.

Keep your initial effort, such as shovelling, walking, running, bicycling, slower than usual as your blood pressure will rise more rapidly in the cold and may become a danger to you.

The HOLIDAYS offer no reason to quit. Do cut down to half of you usual program. You know you need the stress reduction and to spend those extra delicious calories.

In really bitter weather workin instead of out, by using point-of-view videos such as VIDEOCYCLE, NORDICVISION, and the like with your exercise machine in your snug home.

More help is available in "Exercise a la Carte", here, at your bookstore or call 800-624-4952.