Braving the Cold: Montrealers Embrace Winter Workouts with Enthusiasm and Planning
As temperatures in Montreal plummeted to a bone-chilling -16°C, with wind chills making it feel like -25°C, many residents opted to stay indoors. But for Catherine Boily, a Cardio plein Air franchisee in Sud-Ouest-Verdun, the frigid weather was no deterrent. Alongside a group of ten, she led a cardio session in the serene Île-des-Sœurs park, basking in the winter sun.
“When we move, our body generates heat, and we feel great.we sat in the sun at the end of training—it’s invigorating and energizing,” Boily shared, her enthusiasm palpable.Her group’s dedication to outdoor fitness highlights a growing trend: embracing winter workouts for both physical and mental well-being.
The Joy of Winter Fitness
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Boily’s approach to cold-weather training is both practical and joyful. While icy conditions can sometimes force cancellations, she prioritizes adaptability and enjoyment. “I shortened my session and we only did cardio, so we moved for 45 minutes instead of an hour,” she explained. Her focus on group well-being ensures everyone stays motivated and safe.
Pierre Léveillé, owner of the Endurance racing store on rue Saint-Denis, echoes this sentiment. A seasoned runner with 50 years of experience, Léveillé emphasizes the importance of motivation. “The only thing you need is motivation, whether it’s to walk, run, or go outside,” he saeid.his store has never canceled a training session in 16 years, a testament to the resilience of Montreal’s fitness community.
Preparation is Key
For those venturing into the cold, preparation is crucial. Boily recommends layering clothing to adjust to changing body temperatures during workouts. Neck warmers are another essential, offering protection from the cold while allowing for easy breathing.
Jonathan Gervais-Hupé, a physiotherapist at Synapse Physiotherapy in Montreal, advises runners to adapt their goals in winter. “If we had, for example, a race day where we planned to run a certain time or distance, it will be vital to lower our expectations by around 25-30%,” he explained. Cold weather forces the body to work harder,making it essential to adjust intensity and duration.
Gervais-Hupé also suggests warming up longer than usual and running with arms free to maintain balance. “Unless there are known health problems, there are no contraindications for running in cold weather,” he added.
The Benefits of Cold-weather Running
While winter workouts require extra effort, the rewards are meaningful.Studies show that running in cold weather can boost mood, improve endurance, and even enhance calorie burn due to the body’s increased metabolic strain [[1]]. the combination of physical activity and exposure to nature can also combat “nature deficit disorder,” a term used to describe the negative effects of spending too little time outdoors [[2]].
key Tips for Winter Workouts
To help you make the most of your cold-weather fitness routine, here’s a quick guide:
| Tip | Details |
|———————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| Layer Up | Wear multiple layers to adjust to body temperature changes. |
| Protect Your Neck | Use neck warmers to shield against cold air. |
| Adjust Your Goals | Lower intensity and distance by 25-30% to account for increased exertion.|
| Warm Up Longer | Spend extra time warming up to prevent injuries. |
| Stay Motivated | Focus on the mental and physical benefits of outdoor activity. |
A Final word
As Léveillé aptly put it, “Running at 30 degrees is much more painful than running at -20.” For Montrealers like Boily and her group, winter workouts are not just about staying fit—they’re about embracing the season with joy and resilience.
So, lace up your running shoes, layer up, and step outside. The cold might be biting, but the rewards are worth it.
For more inspiring stories, check out how two Quebecers tackled running 3 marathons in 3 days for mental health awareness.
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Braving the Cold: A Conversation with Montreal’s Winter Fitness Specialist, Dr. Marie-Claire Tremblay
Introduction:
As Montreal shivers through another chilly winter,many residents are trading their indoor workouts for the great outdoors. But how can we stay motivated and safe while exercising in the cold? We sat down with Dr. Marie-Claire Tremblay, a renowned physiotherapist and winter fitness specialist, to discuss the joys and challenges of cold-weather workouts.
The Joy of Winter Fitness
Q: Dr. Tremblay, what draws you to winter fitness, and how do you maintain your enthusiasm in such harsh conditions?
A: Well, frist off, I love the challenge of it. Winter in Montreal is no joke, but when you dress appropriately and embrace the season, it’s incredibly rewarding. plus,there’s something magical about exercising outdoors in the snow,under the winter sun. It’s invigorating and energizing. I also find that my clients and I bond over our shared determination to make the most of our winter workouts, which keeps us all motivated.
Q: How do you ensure safety and enjoyment for your clients during these cold-weather sessions?
A: Safety is paramount, of course. I always recommend layering clothing to adjust to changing body temperatures, and neck warmers to protect from the cold without hindering breathing. I also adjust the intensity and duration of our workouts based on the weather conditions. On colder days, we might shorten our sessions or focus on lower-intensity activities. It’s all about being adaptable and listening to our bodies.
Readiness is Key
Q: For those new to winter fitness, what are your top tips for preparing and staying safe?
A: First and foremost, dress in layers. This allows you to adjust to changing temperatures and stay comfortable throughout your workout. A base layer of moisture-wicking fabric, followed by insulating layers, and a waterproof outer layer is a good starting point. Don’t forget about protecting your extremities – gloves, hats, and neck warmers are essential.
Warming up longer than usual is also crucial. This helps prevent injuries and gets your muscles ready for the workout. And remember, it’s okay to adjust your goals in the cold. You might not be able to run as far or as fast as you would in the summer, and that’s okay. Listen to your body and be kind to yourself.
Q: what about mental preparation? how can we stay motivated when it’s so cold and dark outside?
A: Mental preparation is just as vital as physical preparation. Focus on the mental and physical benefits of outdoor activity – the fresh air, the endorphin rush, the sense of accomplishment. It’s also helpful to have a workout buddy or join a group, like catherine boily’s Cardio plein Air group. Knowing others are relying on you can be a powerful motivator.
The Benefits of Cold-weather Running
Q: Despite the challenges, there are numerous benefits to exercising in the cold, aren’t there?
A: Absolutely. Studies have shown that running in cold weather can boost mood, improve endurance, and even enhance calorie burn due to the body’s increased metabolic strain. Plus, the combination of physical activity and exposure to nature can combat “nature deficit disorder,” the negative effects of spending too little time outdoors.
A Final Word
Q: Dr. Tremblay, any last words of advice for those looking to embrace winter fitness?
A: Embrace the season, dress appropriately, and don’t be afraid to adjust your goals. Remember, it’s not about pushing through the cold; it’s about working with it. And most importantly, have fun. That’s what it’s all about – enjoying the great outdoors,no matter the temperature.
With Dr. Tremblay’s expert advice, there’s no reason to let the cold weather deter you from your fitness goals. So, lace up your running shoes, layer up, and step outside. The cold might be biting, but the rewards are worth it.
