Last weekend (10 days ago) in Perth was the first really wet day and one of the wettest bike rides I have ever had.
Our normal cycling group was much smaller than usual and, not surprisingly, we didn’t see many others out riding. Admittedly it was VERY wet and I don’t blame anyone who turned off their alarm, pulled the blanket up and stayed in bed.
While that’s probably the smart thing to do when the weather is really bad, staying in bed all winter isn’t a good idea.
So I thought I would share some ideas to help you stay committed to your exercise program through the cold dark mornings (and afternoons) of winter. If you live in the northern hemisphere, print this off and read it in November!!
Tip 1 – Get your gear ready before hand
I recommend this even when the weather is good, but it is even more important when it’s cold, dark and wet. It doesn’t take much of a barrier to keep you in bed, so having all your gear, including your wet weather gear, ready makes it easier to get out the door.
Tip 2 – You only get wet once
You may need to change your expectations about exercising in the wet. I agree that the experience of getting wet while riding, running or walking is not that pleasant.
The experience of cold water runs down your back or into your shoes is disconcerting, to say the least. It’s a bit like the first few minutes of exercise, it feels uncomfortable until your body adjusts.
The same applies to getting wet. Once you’re wet however, your body adjusts and it doesn’t feel much different to exercising dry.
Tip 3 – Dress to keep the wind out
This probably applies more to cycling than running and walking, but if it is cold and wet, the key to maintaining your temperature is to keep the cold air off your wet skin. Wearing something that stops the cold air getting in is usually all that is required as the body still generates sufficient heat.
Be careful not to overdress as it is easy to fall into the trap of thinking that because it is wet it is cold. Dressing in a way that doesn’t let your body heat escape will affect your performance more than being a bit cold.
Tip 4 – How to dry wet shoes
One of the worst things about exercising in winter is having to put on wet shoes. Therefore it is important to dry your shoes as quickly as possible. Don’t put your shoes near a fire or heater as it can damage them if they get too hot.
Instead, screw up sheets of newspaper and stuff them inside your shoes to absorb the moisture. this helps to dry them from the inside and speeds up the drying process. Remember to change the newspaper a few times, especially in the first 30 minutes.
Tip 5 – Find a reliable training partner
I’ve got a friend and riding partner who just loves to ride in the rain. I know that regardless of the weather conditions, he will turn up. This motivates me to be at our designated meeting spot as I know there will always be some else there.
If you struggle to get out in winter, find a committed training partner and don’t let them down.
[...] How to keep exercising in winter [...]