Sport in winter is not just about skiing or tobogganing. Jogging, walking or cycling can also be fun in winter – of course only if it’s not slippery. Anyone who moves outside in the cold is doing something for their health, because sport in winter strengthens the immune system.
Sports in winter: Wrap up warm and slowly adjust to the temperatures
Unlike heat, the body can prepare itself for cold temperatures. Proper clothing and proper preparation for outdoor training is crucial. But up to what temperatures can you train?
According to the expert, the temperature up to which training outdoors still makes sense depends on the state of fitness and health. The lower the temperature, the harder the sport is for the body. For older and unfit people, Matzarakis recommends avoiding exercise in sub-zero temperatures.
Training in winter: how cold is too cold?
Because the following also applies to physically fit athletes: If the temperature is below minus 20 degrees Celsius, jogging and playing football outside should be a thing of the past.
According to the rules of the International Biathlon Union (IBU), which also apply to other sports, competitions may not be started. If it is colder than minus 15 degrees, wind chill and humidity must be taken into account.
When the air is still, caused by high humidity and fog, pollutants such as dust particles, nitrogen oxides or sulfur can accumulate on the ground. These can lead to additional strain on the respiratory tract. “If you’re not fit, you should leave the sport outside,” continues Matzarakis. This is especially true for asthmatics and people with poor health.
Strong Immune System: Hardening up is good for fitness
Sauna, foot baths or walks in the fresh air: from the point of view of the medical meteorologist, hardening is important for fitness. Sport should be done in the sun during the day if possible in winter. Sport should be avoided when the temperature is too low, the wind is too strong and the humidity is too high.
As long as it’s not snowing excessively or dangerously slippery, exercising in freezing temperatures can strengthen both body and mind. For example, the immune system can be strengthened and physical well-being can also increase.
Especially in times of the corona pandemic, outdoor sports can help to increase physical activity – and also lead to a better mood.
Reduce the risk of catching a cold and improve your mood
Cold viruses have a harder time spreading. Because: The cold air when running moistens the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. In addition, the immune system is stimulated by movement and changing temperatures.
In winter, many people suffer from winter depression or at least a low mood due to the cold and gloomy season. Exercise can play an important role in fighting depression, the Journal of Sports Medicine points out.
The movement creates positive feelings and a better mood.
Prevent venous insufficiency and strengthen bones
Heating air and tight boots can congest blood in the veins in winter, which is why doctors recommend exercise in the fresh air during the cold months. Above all, running is healthy: Sport activates blood flow in the legs and prevents swelling and tingling.
You can also fill up on vitamin D when exercising in daylight. This is especially important in the dark winter months. This can supplement the storage that healthy people have built up in summer with the help of the sun’s UV light. In general, sports like running, where the body supports its own weight, are good for the bones.