As you start a new fitness regimen, you might notice that you feel cold after your workouts. You would not be the first to ask, ‘Why do I get cold after working out?’ It is a common phenomenon driven by a variety of factors. Understanding the scientific reasons behind this post-workout chill can help you alleviate the symptoms. Let ZOZOFIT break it down for you here. 

Why Do I Get Cold After Working Out?

There are many reasons for you to feel cold after a routine workout.

Sweat Evaporation

As you exercise, you increase your body temperature. This triggers sweat production to cool you down. The evaporative cooling process helps to regulate your body temperature. It continues after your workout ends until your body temperature returns to its normal state. This can drop your skin’s temperature and leave you with a chill. A lightweight jacket can help combat this, especially in windy or cool areas.

Blood Redistribution

Your body prioritizes blood flow to the muscles you’re working so they get sufficient oxygen and nutrients during your workout. When your workout ends, it takes time for your body to redistribute that blood flow to its usual patterns. As the blood flow returns to your extremities and skin, it can trigger a chill.

Low Body Fat

The lower your body fat percentage, the more likely you are to feel cold after your workout. Fat is an insulator, so minimal body fat means you have less insulation and lose body heat more quickly. Layers of workout clothing can help you stay warmer.

What Complicates Feeling Cold After Your Workout?

Sometimes, other situations can complicate your ability to regulate your post-workout body temperature. Understanding the aggravating factors can help you mitigate them more effectively.

Dehydration

When you sweat, your body loses water and electrolytes. If you are insufficiently hydrated, this leads to dehydration symptoms. Dehydration reduces your blood volume, making maintaining your core temperature harder. Adequate hydration before, during and after your workout makes a difference. Opt for water or something with electrolytes to help your body restore what it loses during your workout.

Rapid Cool Down

Cooling down too quickly after your workout intensifies the post-workout chill. Allow your body to gradually return to its normal temperature with a slow, light cool-down process, including stretches and slow walking. This allows your body to transition slowly, minimizing the chill you might feel.

Why Do I Get Cold After Working Out Indoors?

You may think you can avoid that post-workout cold feeling by working out indoors, avoiding the outside chill. So, why do you get cold after working out indoors? Even indoor workouts leave you susceptible to body temperature changes, chills and shivering if you cool down too quickly, work out without sufficient hydration or fail to plan for the evaporative effect from sweat.

Dress in layers so you can cover up to protect your skin from the chill, and prioritize adequate hydration and proper workout routines to help your body regulate temperature more efficiently.

For more tips on how to maximize your workout efforts, check out the ZOZOFIT app and ZOZOSUIT today.