by As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, many people turn to indoor workouts to stay in shape during the winter months. But according to experts, running in the winter can actually burn more calories and provide additional benefits compared to running in warmer weather.
According to Ashley Borden, a celebrity fitness trainer, running in cold weather can actually help the body burn more calories. “When you run in cold weather, your body has to work harder to stay warm, which means you burn more calories,” Borden explains. “Your body also has to adapt to the cold by using more energy, so you’re getting an extra calorie-burning boost.”
In fact, a study conducted by researchers at the University of Utah found that people who exercised in cold temperatures burned more calories per minute than those who exercised in warm temperatures. This is because the body has to work harder to maintain its core temperature in colder weather, which leads to increased calorie expenditure.
But burning more calories isn’t the only benefit of running in the winter. According to Borden, the cold weather can also help improve endurance and mental toughness. “Running in the cold requires mental grit and determination, which can help improve your overall mental strength and endurance,” she says. “It’s a great way to challenge yourself and push past your comfort zone.”
In addition to the physical and mental benefits, running in the winter can also provide a welcome change of scenery for many people. “Running in the winter can be incredibly beautiful, especially if you’re running in a snow-covered landscape,” Borden notes. “It’s a great way to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the season.”
Of course, it’s important to take proper precautions when running in the winter, especially in colder climates. Borden recommends dressing in layers to stay warm and wearing reflective gear to stay safe in low-light conditions. She also advises runners to stay hydrated and to be mindful of their footing, as icy or snowy conditions can make for slippery surfaces.
For those who prefer to stay indoors during the winter months, there are still ways to reap the calorie-burning benefits of cold-weather exercise. Borden suggests incorporating high-intensity interval training (HIIT) into your workouts, which can help boost calorie expenditure and improve cardiovascular fitness.
“HIIT workouts can be a great way to mimic the calorie-burning effects of running in cold weather,” she says. “You can do exercises like burpees, mountain climbers, and jumping jacks to get your heart rate up and torch calories in a short amount of time.”
In addition to HIIT workouts, Borden recommends adding resistance training to your winter exercise routine to build strength and burn more calories. “Strength training can help increase your muscle mass, which in turn can help boost your metabolism and calorie burning,” she explains. “It’s a great way to complement your running routine and improve your overall fitness.”
As with any exercise program, it’s important to listen to your body and take necessary precautions to stay safe during the winter months. Borden advises consulting with a fitness professional if you have any concerns about exercising in cold weather, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
Ultimately, running in the winter can be a great way to stay active and burn more calories, while also providing mental and physical benefits. Whether you prefer to brave the cold outdoors or stay warm inside, there are plenty of ways to get your heart pumping and torch those extra calories during the winter season.
