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SUNDAY, Jan. 11 (HealthDayNews) -- Bad weather conditions can dampen your daily run, but they don't have to take the spring out of your step.

The Road Runners Club of America has these tips for cold-weather running, which should also help when you play soccer, football or any other outdoor sport:

• Layer your clothes. Not only will warm air be trapped between the layers, but too much clothing can cause you to sweat excessively, causing the body to lose heat rapidly and increasing the risk of hypothermia. Choose clothing with vents and zippers so you can let out excess heat if you need to. To protect against the wind, have a wind-resistant and breathable material as your outermost layer. The layer next to your skin should wick sweat away from your skin.
• If you're going to err, err on the side of underdressing. It's better to feel a little chilly in the beginning because your body temperature will rise to compensate during the workout.
• Start out running into the wind, with the wind behind you when you return.
• Wear gloves and a hat. If you get too hot, you can always take them off.
• Avoid icy roads or trails. If you run in snow, wear shoes with "nubs," which have better traction.
• Always drink plenty of water. Just because it's not hot and humid outside, you're still losing fluids.

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(SOURCE: Road Runners Club of America)

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