Perhaps you’ve experienced this phenomenon: after an intense run or workout where you are sweating and hot, once finished and cooled down a bit you get VERY VERY COLD.
Why is that?
When we work out, we experience a range of physical and physiological responses, including changes in body temperature. One common phenomenon that many of us have experienced is feeling cold after a workout. In this post, we’ll explore the reasons why our bodies get cold after exercise and what we can do to prevent it.
REASON #1: CORE TEMPERATURE DROPS
The first reason why our bodies get cold after a workout is because of the decrease in core body temperature. When we exercise, our bodies generate heat as a result of increased metabolic activity. This heat helps to regulate our body temperature and keep us comfortable during the workout. However, once the workout is over, our bodies stop generating heat and our core temperature starts to drop. This drop in temperature can result in a feeling of chilliness, especially in areas like the arms and legs, where blood flow is less regulated.
REASON #2: INCREASED BLOOD FLOW TO SKIN SURFACE
Another reason why our bodies get cold after exercise is due to the increase in blood flow to the surface of the skin. During exercise, our bodies pump blood to the muscles to supply them with oxygen and nutrients. After the workout, this increased blood flow to the skin helps to dissipate heat and regulate body temperature. However, it can also result in a feeling of chilliness, especially if the skin is exposed to cool air.
REASON #3: SWEATING
Sweating is also a contributing factor to the feeling of cold after a workout. When we exercise, we sweat to regulate our body temperature by cooling the skin. However, when the sweat evaporates, it takes heat with it, leaving the skin feeling cool and damp. This can cause our bodies to feel cold, especially if we’re wearing damp clothing or if the air is cool and humid.
So, what can we do to PREVENT the feeling of cold after a workout? Here are a few tips:
- Stay warm during the workout: Wearing appropriate clothing for the conditions can help to regulate body temperature during exercise. Opt for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that will help to keep you warm and dry.
- Hydrate: Drinking water before, during, and after exercise can help to regulate body temperature and prevent dehydration, which can make the feeling of cold after a workout more intense.
- Warm up and cool down properly: Warming up and cooling down before and after exercise can help to regulate body temperature and prevent the feeling of cold after a workout.
- Change into dry clothing: Changing into dry clothing immediately after a workout can help to prevent the feeling of cold by removing sweat-dampened clothing.
- Refuel with the right nutrition: Eating a balanced meal or snack after exercise can help to restore energy levels and regulate body temperature.
In conclusion, our bodies get cold after a workout for several reasons, including the decrease in core body temperature, increased blood flow to the skin, sweating, and hormonal changes. By taking steps to regulate body temperature during and after exercise, we can prevent the feeling of cold and keep ourselves feeling comfortable and warm all winter long!