Health Tip: Gear Up for Cold-Weather Exercise

(HealthDay News) -- Exercising during the chilly winter months can keep you physically and emotionally healthier. But it's important to prepare for the changes in temperature.

The Texas Heart Institute suggests these cold-weather exercise guidelines:

• Gradually train and prepare for cold-weather activities.
• When exercising outdoors, dress in layers that you can remove and that pull sweat away from your body.
• Wear extra-warm socks, and protect your hands with gloves.
• Protect your head and neck with a hat or headband and scarf.
• Wear glasses or goggles to protect eyes, reflective gear if outside at night and always protect yourself with sunscreen during the day.
• If traveling to a higher altitude, give yourself a few days to adjust before exercising.
• Drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol and familiarize yourself with symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite.