Last week, we looked at how a Meaford winter opens up your fitness options. Here are some tips on how to outfit yourself make your winter workout warm, safe and fun.

Come winter, you can’t just throw on an old T-shirt and a pair of shorts for your exercise. The cold temperature – which can vary in intensity from day to day – affects your choice of garb.

Water, from melting snow, rain, and your own sweat, draws heat from your body to the cold outside air, so keeping your skin as dry as possible goes a long way to keep you warm. Moisture-wicking material against your skin (such as nylon and Lycra), and a water-resistant layer outside as necessary, will keep you dry. Often, a moisture wicking jersey and long underwear, topped by water and wind-resistant top layer will be enough. But sometimes it won’t, so a middle layer of wool or fleece will beef up your warmth. Dressing in layers lets you adjust your clothing to the temperature and intensity of your workout.

Protect your extremities with gloves and warm, wicking socks. Thick, fluffy socks might be tempting, but depending on your activity level, thinner, wicking socks might be better. Remember, if you do prefer thicker socks, make sure your footwear size accommodates them, or you can end up colder due to restricted circulation.

And top yourself off with a toque or a headband; some ventilation in your head area may keep you from feeling overheated (and fogging up those glasses).

Wear running shoes or boots with good traction, or consider adding separate grippers available from various athletic manufacturers, such as yaktrax.ca.

Even though you’re all covered up and it’s a far cry from a day at the beach, the sun – particularly when glaring on snow – can still be a threat, so wear a moderate sunscreen. And don’t forget windburn. Moisturizing cream and lip balm are your best defence. Finally, you might want to consider sunglasses to keep down the eyestrain and stop your eyes from watering in the wind.

At the same time, darker, shorter days mean reduced visibility, and winter conditions might have you tending toward the road rather than the sidewalk, so bright (or even reflective) outdoor gear are a definite plus in early morning, dusk – or even midday.

A tipped cane or walking poles are a perfect final touch for those brisk winter walks, helping keep you stable and forcing your arms into motion to increase your workout benefit. Like cross country poles, they have a tip that grips the snow or ice, but they’re adjustable for a comfortable fit, and usually come equipped with a basket to prevent them from sinking too deeply in the snow. Mountain Equipment Co-op has a great selection.

Ready? Next time, some nutrition advice for cold weather fitness.