Athleisure 101: How to Stay Warm While Working Out This Winter

Brrrr! It’s cold out there! When that all-too-familiar and often dreaded chill permeates the air, you don’t have to sacrifice your workouts during winter. That’s something to remember if you find yourself fantasizing about staying in for the day instead of going for your morning jog. While it’s definitely more than okay to give yourself a break from time to time, it’s best to stick to your routine during the coldest months of the year so that you don’t fall out of the habit by springtime.

And the best way to face it head-on is to choose comfortable athleisure that will keep you warm while you’re giving it your all. Before you delve in, keep a few important pointers in mind. You don’t want to bundle up to the hilt, much as that might seem like the practical thing to do when it’s really cold outside. But you don’t need to wear a heavy-duty winter coat when you’re breaking a sweat — and you will sweat, even if you start out shivering. Here are some suggestions to help you face those winter workouts like a champ!

Start With a Base Layer

Wearing layers is key to handling winter workouts like you’ve done it your entire life without a second thought. That first layer is key because it protects you from potential health concerns. When you wear clothes that are soaked in sweat, you’re more susceptible to developing a lower body temperature as you continue to exercise. So that first layer should ideally wick moisture away from the skin to keep you as dry as possible. In the winter, it’s best to wear something that sits relatively close to your skin, but if you prefer a looser tunic, it’s important to select a style that will pull dampness away from your body.

Follow With a Mid Layer

That bottom layer requires something on top to perform its best. The shirt’s sweat-wicking properties are simply more effective when you wear a garment that properly insulates your body. Most importantly, this middle layer should be ventilated so that it can help maintain and regulate your body’s temperature while you’re sweating it out. It’s best to look for garments made with reliable materials that facilitate the wicking and temperature regulating processes, such as a fleece sweater made for active lifestyles or a top with mesh for enhanced ventilation and breathability. Remember, you want to stabilize your core temperature, and for that, you need to ensure that your body doesn’t get too warm or cold through the duration of your workout. The right clothes help establish a balance.

Protect With an Outer Layer

Your topmost layer is what seals it all together and creates a seamless “package” that keeps you most comfortable — and safe — during your cold-weather sessions. The key to choosing the right jacket is to consider its weight before anything else. Many garments are too heavy and might restrict your movement, and that’s something that could take away from the quality of your workout. Instead, opt for a lightweight jacket that you can easily pull on or off depending on the conditions and how you feel. Another option is a women’s winter vest, which is often just right for helping you stay warm for the course of your workout. If you’re going for a run, look for a packable style that you can easily stow away if you aren’t going home right away.

Grab Your Most Cozy Leggings

A great pair of leggings is key because it will keep you comfortable, wick moisture from your skin to promote dryness, and move with you thanks to its flexible fabric. All of these factors play significant roles in the success of your workout, so make it a priority to seek bottoms that really work in your favor from start to finish. Some styles are infused with sun protection, which is a huge bonus if you’re working out on a bright morning and want to go the extra mile to safeguard your skin. When it’s extra cold outside, you can even wear your leggings beneath a pair of warmer pants, like joggers or sweats, for extra insulation.

Safeguard Your Extremities

Don’t forget to protect the rest of your body while you’re out there! A few key winter accessories will make all the difference in how your hands, face, and ears feel when you’re on the move. If it’s especially cold out there, don’t hesitate to wear a hat or even a face mask if you need to protect your face from harsh winds and potential precipitation.