How clothing can help you get a better workout!

Coach Sophie

Q; How many layers? (A = all of them!)

When working out, layers are so important as they help to stabilise your body temperature, especially at this time of year when you might feel quite cold when you begin your workout, but by the end you’ll know why the fans are on!

Let’s talk about layers… Generally, three layers are adequate to keep warm without over insulating.

BASE LAYER - The main role of the base layer is to move moisture away from your skin so it can evaporate. First off, they should be thin and tight fitting. Thin clothing doesn’t absorb a lot of moisture, but it does protect your core temperature by keeping you slightly dryer. Technical tops are popular base layer choices, sleeve length to suit your preferences! Many of might forgo this layer in the gym, but we know some of you will benefit from it. These rules apply to outdoor activities too where you might find a base layer is a must!

MIDDLE LAYER - Insulation is an essential property of mid-layer clothing. When shopping for this layer, look for something loose that allows for full range of motion. Something that provides warmth but also wicks away moisture to protect your core body temperature without overheating.

OUTER LAYER - The last layer is to help get you started, it’s likely you’ll remove this after your warm-up, but it is essential to enable your muscles to get warm, so you can build up your efforts to get a Strong and effective workout. If you start off cold, it is likely you will stay cold, risking injury and not being able to work hard enough to get the benefits. If you are outdoors this is the layer that will protect you from the elements so choose appropriately.

Accessories – If you are outdoors don’t forget your extremities! The head, ears, fingers, and feet rarely get as much circulation as the rest of the body. Consequently, while the body heats up, these extremities freeze in the cold. Keeping your head, hands, and feet warm help your body to keep you warmer more efficiently so, remember your hat, gloves, and warm socks.

Now we know how to keep exercising in the colder temperatures safely, watch Coach Sall’s video to see this action.

Always remember, more is better, it’s easy to take layers off!

Coach Sophie celebrating Jan’s birthday workout in our birthday hat!