Cold Weather Training

If you have been reluctant to engage in outdoor training during frigid temperatures, there may be valid reasons for your hesitation. Exercising in cold weather can increase the likelihood of developing respiratory tract infections due to the combination of low temperature and low humidity (Conlon et al., 2011). Prolonged, intense exercise has been found to cause immunosuppression, potentially heightening the risk and severity of respiratory viral infections, while moderate-intensity exercise has been shown to improve immune function and reduce the risk of such infections (Martin et al., 2009). Furthermore, cold weather and the subsequent inhalation of dry air can lead to respiratory symptoms, which can be exacerbated during exercise, potentially resulting in the development of asthma among outdoor athletes (Hyrkäs et al., 2014). Additionally, exposure to cold environments has been associated with an increased risk of respiratory tract infections and their severity, especially among vulnerable populations (Eccles & Wilkinson, 2015). It has also been suggested that both a sedentary lifestyle and excessive strenuous exercise are risk factors for increased susceptibility to respiratory infections (Kurowski, 2019).

Moreover, individuals with pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions may experience worsened symptoms when exercising under cold weather conditions (Fudge et al., 2015). A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and quasi-RCTs found that exercise can affect the occurrence, severity, and duration of acute respiratory infections, indicating a potential link between exercise and respiratory infections (Haney & Cherian, 2021).

In conclusion, the evidence suggests that exercising in cold weather may pose a risk of respiratory tract infections, particularly in vulnerable populations and individuals with pre-existing conditions. The impact of exercise on the immune system and the potential for increased susceptibility to respiratory infections under cold weather conditions merit further attention and consideration.