Exercise in a Cold Climate

Dr. Shephard reviews practical advice required by the winter sportsman in relation to more fundamental aspects of the bodily response to cold. Heat loss occurs by radiation, convection, conduction, and evaporation of sweat; this loss must be made good by metabolism if the body is not to be chilled. Convection is the main source of heat loss in the sportsman, and must be minimized by appropriate clothing. Chilling below a body temperature of 95°F is undesirable; temperatures below 90°F are rapidly fatal. Heat is restored to the body by warming, by the “waste” energy of physical activity, and by shivering.