Training in a winter wonderland.

I've heard plenty excuses from outdoor clients lately.

'It's too cold'..
'What if I slip'..

The weather is something we will never control folks, but it can have it's benefits.

Shivering for example is an involuntary movement, meaning we don't control it. However, it costs energy. So straight off the bat you're burning fat! Great right? But we can't be shivering all day, and what better way to warm up than exercise. In fact your body has to work harder and utilize fat more effectively to stay warm... The results can be fantastic! Persuaded yet? Well how about this:

Your Mood:

Although we always say this is the time of year to be merry, deep down we know it's a damn stressful month. Longer car journeys, traffic jams, pushing through the crowds whilst shopping, waiting for delayed deliveries... It can all get too much. And with the dark gloomy days, well, it's a wonder we all manage. Don't worry though! Cardio bouts can seriously increase your mood. The sense of achievement boosts serotonin levels and can be four times more effective than any antidepressant, the only side effect being a cheeky smile.

Your body:

First of, your organs:
There is a certain type of nasty fat called low density lipoproteins LDL. These guys do all sorts of damage, and have been attributed to many heart diseases. These aren't visible for the most part with skin fold calipers though, these guys are in your blood. They do however have an enemy, good old high density lipoproteins HDL! In short (because we both know you aren't really bothered about the science here) training in the cold helps our HDL's out whilst kicking 12 days of Christmas out of LDL's, those scrooges! Leading to a healthier heart and blood stream.

Secondly, your immune system:
Never is there a better time to strengthen your immune system than in the cold weather. In fact research suggests your chances of catching those god forsaken winter sniffles is decreased by 20-30% if you train regularly in colder weather. Something those of you trying to wait it out will never compete with.

Lastly, your body.
With all the shivering, the complaining, the short burst of energy attempting to stay warm, our muscle glycogen levels are depleted far quicker, which significantly increases your fat metabolism. In fact you can burn nearly 500 more calories just because its a little chilly! On top of this you've probably noticed it's a little harder to breathe too? Well that all leads to your body training to become far more efficient at utilizing oxygen, and trust me, come the warmer months this is really noticeable! You'll have the edge over anyone who neglected the winter sessions, and your lungs will feel much stronger.

Is this not enough? These are the main factors, and coupled together equal the following:

- Strengthened immune system.
- Increased ability to burn fat (even after winter).
- Big increase in the bodies ability to utilise oxygen.
- Increased mood to lend perspective, decrease stress, and counteract depression.
- Healthier heart and cardiovascular system.
- Strong possibility of burning significantly more calories.

All of this because you braved a little chill!
If you've read this far you already know you're keen. So congratulations, you just made your first step, now get your ass out there!