Exercising Outdoors in Cold Temperatures. It is even more important to warm up before exercising outdoors in cold temperatures. Begin with a walk or gentle calisthenics before running, cross country skiing
or other winter sports activities. Never stretch when the body is cold. Divers who enjoy snowboarding and
downhill skiing may have the option of warming up in a resort fitness facility before hitting the slopes.
Stay as warm as possible without overheating before, during and after these activities. Stay well hydrated
before, during and after exercise and recreational activities in cold weather.
Dress in layers with a quick dry base close to the body. Protect
hands, head, feet and face from the extreme temperatures. Exercising in cold temperatures may not be recommended for divers with
heart and respiratory conditions.
Remember diving is not a workout. Ice diving (as shown in this
cool photograph) requires special protection from the elements and
unique safety protocols. It is highly recommended that divers who
enjoy diving in extreme environments achieve and maintain a high
level of physical fitness.
Calories Burned in Cold Temperatures. The body utilizes slightly
more energy to regulate normal body temperature in cold environments such as diving in cold water. However the additional
calories from temperature are negligible. Exercise exertion, which
during diving is to be avoided as much as possible, is what produces higher calorie burn. Generically speaking, a diver utilizes
approximately 300 calories during a typical dive – about the same
as going for a moderate to fast walk for an hour.
For more information about
healthy diving, contact
Gretchen at www.scubafit.com
TM