Thoughts on the Cold and Windchill

It is cold in Dubuque, Iowa today, -6F and -23C with a wind. That equals cold according to the National Weather Service. A couple quick thoughts:

• When temperatures and wind chills are in the negatives, limit your time outside. That includes running on a treadmill. 
• At high altitudes it's not the cold that hampers your progress as much as the lack of oxygen. Zero degrees at 7000 meters feels much colder than zero degrees at sea level because your body struggles to generate (metabolize) enough heat.
• Take the extra few minutes to warm up your car, take the larger pair of mittens, and put a blanket in your car, among other preparations  A few minutes preparing in a warm building could save a few minutes or more freezing in the cold.
• Appreciate warmer temperatures in the spring, summer and fall. Don't be one of those people that complains about every season's weather.