Baby, it’s cold outside. If you’ve gotten into a good groove with an outdoor walking program (and your NuShape supplements,) you may be reluctant to let go of a good thing and hit the treadmill at the gym. However, if you invest in a few good clothing pieces and plan properly, you can keep your outdoor regimen going no matter the weather. Here’s how to dress for cold weather success from the ground up.
Start with your feet, the most important element of any walking program. Traditionally, cold weather wear began with a nylon sock topped with a wool outer sock; now you can try one of the new blends that combine two socks in one.
The new socks are less bulky, which is important for walking shoe comfort. Here’s a list of brands to try from about.com .
For walking pants, you’ll want to start with a close-fitting layer of wicking polyester, not cotton. Cotton tends to get wet and stay wet, which is not good if it starts to rain or snow. Tights made specifically for running are a good inner-layer choice, and if the weather turns messy simply add loose-fitting nylon sweatpants. Nike.com features the full range of their Dri-Fit products.
Top off your pants with the same layering technique. Start with a nylon layer next to your skin, such as a tight-fitting tank or short-sleeved top. The next layer can be fleece or wool. The latest clothing technology features fleece in all thicknesses and weights—it’s not the same pill-producing, shedding material that was introduced decades ago. L.L. Bean and Land’s End have long been the choice for cold weather wear in the United States for years: their selections are extensive and have something that fits all ages and sizes.
Accessories are important because they’ll keep your extremities warm and blood flowing. Choose nylon gloves that wick away sweaty palms; choose a nylon neck “gaiter” that stays put instead of a floppy scarf; and be sure to include a baseball hat or wool beanie to prevent body heat from escaping through your scalp.
The most important part of cold-weather dressing may be something you apply: a water-resistant, SPF-15 or more sunscreen. Once you start seating, or if you wipe your face, reapply. Snow on the ground can reflect 85% of the sun’s rays right back at you, which can double your exposure. If you never wear sunscreen from September to May, you could do as much damage as you would during the summer months.
If you’re a beginner and need a 15-minute walking plan that combines some abdominal moves with flexibility and weight training,this workout from the Public Broadcasting System is a good start. It can be done indoors or outdoors, or a combination of both if the weather’s turning nasty.
Ready to roll outdoors and start walking? Don’t forget your NuShape supplement! It’ll help you burn fat faster and get down one dress size in one month. Get more tips on workout wear from our Pinterest pages.
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