Baby It's Cold Outside!

Here on the Texas Gulf Coast, we don't usually hit the dark line on the thermometer that indicates the temperature at which water solidifies. Our local weather prognosticators in Houston tell us it's going to freeze here!

I'm not a big fan of really cold weather. Up in Western Pennsylvania, I love the crisp, cool autumn days. But by about mid-November, I am ready for Texas, where it's often a cool 60 in the winter. Heck, I haven't owned a real winter coat since first moving here over 20 years ago.

Winter exercise is important, but you need to be careful about it. The Mayo Clinic has a lot of good advice about cold-weather exercise.

First things first: Always check with your health care professional to make sure you're healthy enough for exercise.

Dress in layers so that as you warm up, you can shed the outer garments.

Protect your hands and feet from extreme cold. You may also use a scarf to protect your nose and lips.

If you're exercising during the day, don't forget the sunscreen. It may be cold out, but it's still possible to get sunburned.

If you're exercising after dark or early in the morning, wear reflective clothing so that folks can see you. While out driving the other evening I almost hit a lady jogging on the street in all-black clothes!

Cold weather is no excuse to dog it during winter. Just be safe out there and enjoy a cozy fire and a cup of something warm when you get back inside.

For more information, see http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fitness/HQ01681.