Halloween & dressing properly

Well, I hope all of you out there had a fun and happy Halloween. Luckily, no tricks have been played on us, but we do have a treat. We get to keep rowing for 2 more weeks! Sure it's starting to get cold now that we've planned this but hey - we're tough and that won't stop us. Rowing in cold weather is why rowers are often called "gear-dogs"...we need all the fancy schmancy "wicking" shirts and leggings and all that stuff. We shop for the latest in material technology that REI has to offer and talk about our coolest new weather shirts.

Okay, so I make fun of us a little. But actually, dressing properly for working out in cold weather is very important. Sure you can spend tons of money on the latest greatest thing, but that's not necessary. Layering is key because you want to start off warm but be able to peel layers as you get further into your workout and begin to sweat. If you only have 2 layers on, you'll start off cold, then be burning up, strip to your one layer, then get it soaked and never be able to get warm after the practice is over. Making sure that the first layer is NOT cotton is also very important. Hikers have a saying that is true for all outdoor enthusiasts: "wet cotton kills". When you wear a cotton t-shirt and start sweating, it sticks to you. Then it cools off and between the cold sweat from the inside and the cold elements from the outside, you freeze. Make sure that the closest layer to your skin is something that will "wick" moisture away from you.

There are lots of options for what to wear and those of you that are internet savvy, do a search or two for proper outdoor gear for working out. The rest of you can ask a coach or go to a sporting goods store and see what they have available, and then ask the salesperson what the materials do. Even if you just go to the specialty store to find out about the materials, you can probably find similar materials at Target, Kohls, or Walmart. You don't have to spend a lot but it IS important to dress for the weather.

See ya out there!!