Dan's Papers - December 14, 2007

The rare beauty on the East End is ideal for those that enjoy exercising outdoors. Running and bicycling are fantastic hobbies from April to November, but what about those other months? On the dreadful gray, rainy and snowy winter days, most turn indoors to the gym to stir up endorphins. However, there is always a little sunshine in that winter darkness. For me, running over the Ponquogue Bridge on an occasional sunny winter day is extra enjoyable after being cooped up at home. The smells of salt water and beach bring happiness and much needed calmness. The trick is to be able to endure this cold air with the proper precautions as to not weaken our immune systems and develop bronchitis or pneumonia.

A few years ago, when I first moved to New York, I was intent on running outside all year round. I would fret each fall about whether or not it was going to be okay for me to continue running outdoors through the winter because at the time I did not see any other option for myself. I have since let go of these strict rules and learned to explore other methods of exercise, in the process learning a little bit about the world of indoor activity interchanging with outdoor exercise and the benefits of mixing it up. These days I find myself giving into the gym and other ways of exercising more and more. Some prefer running through the winter wilderness and are able to do it without a glitch.

For the hard-core runners who must triumph even on the terrible days there are adjustments that need to be made from the regular running routine. Winter running must be categorized as a completely separate activity than running in the other seasons. First off, if one decides to run in the snow it is necessary to wear light colors and reflective gear if running in the dark because the motorists cannot see you, are sometimes sliding around. They may not be paying attention because they are enjoying the glorious flakes just as you are. For obvious reasons, just to be on the safe side, tell someone that you are going for a run before you leave.

For those who are experiencing running in the cold weather for the first time, it can feel as if your lungs are going to freeze. Don't worry they won't. Running in the cold is not bad for you. Your body is able to warm the air, if you are not in good enough shape and you experience discomfort it may help to put a scarf over your mouth. However, if you have any hint of infection previously existing in your lungs the air will hurt you. The cold will not cause infection but it will aggravate it.

Since the cold air does not hurt us but can weaken our immune systems it is nice to dress appropriately. Your body will be creating heat, which will help to warm you. Wearing a big puffy jacket may get tricky for the bodies in motion so opt for layers instead of bulk. It is recommended to layer specifically with three layers. First, a base of snug, wicking material such as polypropylene, polyester, Thermax or wool. Next, a mid-layer of looser material that insulates and carries moisture from the base layers such as down, polyester or fleece. And finally, an outer layer to block the wind such as Gore-Tex. A hat and gloves will be helpful and a scarf is an option that will either help keep your neck warm or annoy you to the point that you leave it on the side of the road. A turtleneck is another option.

A good tip for those who are unsure of their capabilities in the cold is to begin running towards the wind returning with the wind at your back so it will be easier to get home in case you are struggling. It is just as important to hydrate in the cold as it is in the hot. You will still sweat so be sure to change into dry clothes as soon as you finish your run because it is dreadful to be wet and cold.

It is recommended to cut your usual running schedule in half during the cold months. If less exercise is making you feel helpless and destined to gain unwanted fat, do not fret. Switching up your exercise routine is more beneficial to losing weight than practicing the same task over and over. So get your run on but keep your mind open to the elliptical at the gym.