We all know here in the Asheville, North Carolina area that colder weather means some changes to how we exercise. Of course, it’s harder to motivate yourself to get outside for a run or bike ride when the temperature drops, and the shorter days compress our schedules, but there are changes in your body that affect your ability to exercise too. For many people with arthritis or other joint problems, cold weather brings more complaints of pain. To stay warm, our bodies narrow blood vessels to reduce bloodflow to the skin, and more superficial muscles. That means that there is an increased risk of muscle strains in the cold. There is also an increased strain on the heart because of the narrowed blood vessels. This isn’t to say that you shouldn’t be active outdoors in the cold, it just means you may have to make a few changes to your routine. Here are a few changes the team at SEPTTM Physical Therapy wants you to consider:
Warm up right
A good warm up is always important, but because of the tendency for joints to be stiffer, and bloodflow to muscles to be reduced in the cold, it’s even more important that you do it right this time of year. To start, do something to get your heart rate up a bit, maybe a brisk walk or light jog. Follow that up with a dynamic warm up rather than static stretches. This could include walking or jogging while pulling your knees up high to your chest. Maybe some high kicks in front of you with straight knees to get your hamstrings loosened. A walking lunge with an upper body twist can get your whole body moving. Cater your warm up to what you have planned in your workout. If you’re not sure how it should look, ask your physical therapist!
Dress right
Dressing in layers allows you to adjust your insulation to your activity level. After you warm up, you might want to take off a layer to avoid getting too hot during your main activity. You’ll have it there later to put back on when your activity level drops and you start getting too cold. Don’t forget about the sun either – just because it’s cold doesn’t mean the UV rays are gone. Sunscreen and sunglasses aren’t just for the summer. A lip balm with SPF can protect you not only from the sun but from the wind too.
Stay hydrated
Drink water before, during, and after your workout. The temperature may be down, but you’ll still sweat and you’ll still lose water vapor in your breath. The drier air in winter lets your sweat evaporate more quickly, so it’s easy to underestimate how much fluid you’ve lost.
Cool down
When you’re done, don’t rush to get inside and crawl under a blanket. Cool down properly. Keep moving with a walk or another form of active recovery to let your heart rate come down. After exercise is the right place for static stretching. You can also head inside for some foam rolling or self-massage. The days being shorter and the temperatures being lower don’t mean you’re stuck inside for all of your exercise. If you follow these tips, you can safely keep moving outside. If you’d like a customized warm up or cool down, or have questions about your exercise routine, your physical therapist is a great person to ask!
About SEPTTM Physical Therapy
Founded in 1999, SEPTTM Physical Therapy is locally owned by Darren Cady, a physical therapist. We are proud of our long-term commitment and service to Buncombe County, Henderson County and the surrounding areas.
SEPTTM Physical Therapy leads the way in sports rehab and physical therapy – treating orthopedic, muscular, bone and joint injuries, ailments and pain. Whether it is a sprain or post- operative repair, we have the experience and expertise to do the best job and get the results you deserve.
SEPT works with all provider networks and welcomes walk-ins. All insurances are accepted, including Medicare and Medicaid. And, with 8 outpatient locations and over 90 Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants, SEPT will provide you the care and attention you need with the convenience of a clinic near you.
