ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Sunday, November 24, 1996 TAG: 9611250126
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: 11 EDITION: METRO
If you plan to continue your outdoor routine, here are some tips to remember from local running experts and the American Running and Fitness Association:
* Don't overheat. Wear layers, so you can remove clothing as you warm up. Overheating can cause fatigue and discomfort.
* Don't freeze up. Frostbite and hypothermia are true concerns in cold weather, so use common sense and wear enough clothing, especially on extremities (see the next tip). And make sure you get indoors when you get too cold. Hypothermia symptoms include slurred speech, loss of coordination, disorientation and intense shivering. But often, you won't realize this is a problem until it's too late.
* Cover your hands and head. Jay Johnson at Boulder Running Co. says it's important to keep your hands warm. When it's really cold, mittens are better than gloves, he says. And wear a hat on cold days, because much of your body heat escapes from your head.
* Consider the wind. When it's cold, high winds can make conditions even worse. If you do exercise outside on cold windy days, start out against the wind so you'll finish with the wind at your back. That way, you'll be less likely to be chilled by your body sweat.
* Use caution. Be aware of weather changes that could leave you cold and stranded. Consider reflective or bright clothing during the longer hours of darkness and avoid traffic during those times.
- KNIGHT-RIDDER/TRIBUNE
LENGTH: Short : 36 linesby CNB