The Dangers of Running Outside in Cold Weather

While some people like to run outside, winter weather is inevitable and can make things more difficult. There are also some dangers that come with running outside in the cold weather. Take the time to learn more about these possible dangers before you choose to head outside.

Bad for Your Lungs

When you run outside in the low temperatures, you breathe in cold air, which can be dangerous for your lungs. Cold air is bad for your lungs because it’s typically very dry, which can lead to coughing, shortness of breath, and more. If you have asthma, COPD, or bronchitis, these weather conditions can make your symptoms even worse.

Black Ice

Another thing you have to worry about when you run in cold weather is black ice. Running on cement is already bad on your knees and ankles, and it’s also where black ice is most likely to form. Black ice is hard to see as you drive and the same thing applies when you’re running outside—especially at night. If you run outside, you run the risk of slipping on black ice and getting in a serious injury.

Risk of Sickness

When temperatures get really cold, there is a chance of getting sick the longer you stay outside. Some sicknesses you need to worry about are hypothermia and frostbite if you are outside for too long. Due to the unpredictability of winter weather, it may ruin your workout plans. You also don’t want to risk getting sick around the holiday season.

Chance of Getting Hit

When you run outside in the cold, there is a greater chance you’ll get in an accident. This is especially true for those who don’t have access to trails and run on the street. Regardless of the weather, it’s never safe to run on a busy road. Come winter, however, your chances of getting into an accident increase, as a car can easily slide and hit you. Winter leads to more obstacles, such as snow and ice, that make it difficult for a driver to come to a stop.

Your best bet for maintaining your figure when the weather becomes miserable is to invest in a treadmill. This way, you can keep up with your fitness goals and not worry about the weather preventing you from accomplishing them. This holiday season, explore all Utah Home Fitness has to offer with our home fitness warehouse, which is full of treadmills, ellipticals, exercise bikes, and more.