Montrealers Brave the Chill: Winter Fitness Takes Hold
Montrealers are proving that winter workouts are far from a pipe dream, as many residents are embracing the cold and staying active despite temperatures plummeting well below freezing. This week, Environment Canada reported temperatures as low as -16 degrees Celsius with wind chills reaching a bone-chilling -25.
But the chill hasn’t deterred fitness enthusiasts. Catherine Boily, owner of Cardio Plein Air in Southwest-Verdun, led a group of ten participants through a cardio workout in a park on Île-des-Sœurs. "When you move, your body generates heat, and you feel great," Boily shared after the session. "We finished the workout in the sun, which was invigorating and energizing."
Boily emphasizes that while extreme weather conditions occasionally force cancellations, she prioritizes adapting workouts to ensure everyone enjoys the experience. “I shortened the session today and focused on cardio so we moved for 45 minutes instead of an hour,” she explained, adding that she always checks in with her group to ensure everyone is comfortable.
Pierre Léveillé, owner of the Endurance running store on Saint-Denis Street, echoes this sentiment. “The only thing you need is motivation, whether it’s for walking, running, or simply being outside,” he said, a seasoned runner with 50 years of experience. “In 16 years, we’ve never cancelled a training session, even on Wednesdays or Sundays.”
Preparing for the Cold
Experts agree that proper readiness is key to enjoying outdoor workouts in winter. Jonathan Gervais-Hupé, a physiotherapist at Synapse Physiotherapy in Montreal, recommends runners adjust their goals and focus on a good foot strike, particularly on slippery surfaces.
“If you’re planning a long run on a cold day, it’s critically important to lower your expectations by 25-30%,” Gervais-Hupé explained. “Your body works harder in the cold, so it’s essential to be mindful of this.”
He also suggests running with arms free for improved balance and warming up for a longer duration than usual. “Unless you have pre-existing health conditions, there’s no reason why you can’t run in the cold,” Gervais-Hupé reassured. “Running in 30-degree weather is actually more challenging than running in -20 degrees.” Léveillé added that the cold can be invigorating and that the perceived difficulty frequently stems from mental barriers rather than physical limitations.
As Montrealers continue to embrace the winter months, it’s clear that staying active outdoors is not only possible but also a rewarding way to enjoy the season.
Q&A with Local Experts
Time.news: Montrealers are defying the cold this winter, finding ways to stay active outdoors even as temperatures plunge. Catherine Boily, owner of Cardio Plein Air, says her sessions are seeing strong attendance. What are some adjustments people need to make when exercising in the cold?
Catherine Boily: Absolutely! People are realizing that winter doesn’t have to mean a pause on fitness. When leading workouts outside, we always prioritize safety and enjoyment. The biggest thing is to listen to your body. On days where it’s particularly frigid, we might shorten our sessions or adjust the intensity. A good warm-up is crucial, as your muscles need more time to get going in the cold.
Time.news: And what about people who want to stick with their regular running routine during winter?
Jonathan Gervais-Hupé: As a physiotherapist, I often advise runners to adjust their goals for winter runs.
Your body works harder in the cold, so it’s smart to lower your expectations by 25-30%. Things like pace and distance might need to be scaled back. A good foot strike is also essential on icy or snowy surfaces to avoid slips and falls.
Time.news: Running in cold and snowy conditions can seem intimidating. Any tips for people who are hesitant?
Pierre Léveillé: I’ve been a runner for over 50 years, and I can tell you it’s all about mindset. The cold might feel tougher, but it can also be invigorating. A lot of times, the perceived difficulty comes from mental barriers. Remember to focus on the positive aspects – the crisp air, the quiet surroundings.
Time.news: And what about safety considerations for those wanting to maintain an active outdoor routine during winter?
Catherine Boily: Always check the weather forecast ahead of time. If conditions are extreme, it’s best to err on the side of caution and cancel your workout. Dress in layers, using moisture-wicking materials to stay warm and dry. Inform someone about your workout plans and expected return time. And, of course, be mindful of slick surfaces.