[Simulated (OP)]

I've ran all fall, winter, and the start of spring (well its been spring like weather). I've ran on lots of snowy, icy, cold days. Temperatues 10-40 degrees. Ran about 3 times a week and 2-5 miles each time. I've been told by some people that that isn't good for my lungs since there is less 02 in the air because its thinner. I never pushed myself to hard. I always thought that if you could get your lungs to function with less 02 you'd be better off because when its warms up you'd be able to move that much air.

So, I guess if I'm asking. Does it hurt your lungs to run in cold air? How does it hurt them? or is it actually good to run in cold weather?

Thanks

[Chemistry4me]

IS COLD-WEATHER RUNNING BAD FOR YOU?

Cold Weather Running Safety Tips.

The general consensus after reading those two links appears to be that you should be more careful about your external clothing/gear rather than your internal organs.

[Chemistry4me]

Lots of endurance athletes do Altitude training and it doesn't seem to hurt them too much []

[Simulated (OP)]

Ha I love the seoncd last paragraph on the first one.

So, it is possible for your lungs to freeze. Only not while you're alive and running. To stay comfortable in frigid weather, wear a microfiber shirt as a first layer, followed by a breathable windbreaker, gloves or mittens, and a hat. Begin by running into the wind, not with it, which will keep you from sweating too much. Sweat is bad in winter, as water robs heat from your body up to 25 times faster than trapped air does

Exactly what I wear. And I really love how it doesn't say anything about covering your legs. Because.. I never do.

Thank you =D

[AnnaSmith]

That depends, I think. If you get enough clothes and preparation, and in good health condition, it should be OK. Some <<<SPAM LINK REMOVED>>> might be needed in such case. And if it rains, you'd better stay indoor rather than running outdoor. If you have to, get <<<SPAM LINK REMOVED>>> on.

[Colin2B]

That depends, I think. If you get enough clothes and preparation, and in good health condition, it should be OK. Some <<<SPAM LINK REMOVED>>> might be needed in such case. And if it rains, you'd better stay indoor rather than running outdoor. If you have to, get <<<SPAM LINK REMOVED>>> on.

Well, thank you for your pathetic attempt to spam us.
Your reward, a free ban. Enjoy.

[Priapus]

I've wondered the same -- but pollution in the air is my primary concern when running in the winter.  Places like SLC that have an inversion during the winter months (trapped 2.5PM) that cause a nasty smog during the colder months... they recommend not running during these times.

[Roslyn]

So, I guess if I'm asking. Does it hurt your lungs to run in cold air? How does it hurt them? or is it actually good to run in cold weather?

[Colin2B]

So, I guess if I'm asking. Does it hurt your lungs to run in cold air? How does it hurt them? or is it actually good to run in cold weather?

Yet another pathetic attempt to spam us.
We’ve changed your signature website to ours, so now you can take a runner and you’re out in the cold.

[Bored chemist]

there is less 02 in the air because its thinner.

That's just wrong.
In cold weather the air is generally drier (which may be an issue for runners) and, since there's less water vapour "diluting" it there is actually more oxygen in terms of % by volume.

And the cold air is denser so there's more oxygen in any given volume- for example, a lung-full.

[diverjohn]

I live in Canada so I have had the experience of running in cold temperatures.
First off, the density of air has little effect on performance.
Secondly, the biggest problem is frost nip and frost bite affecting the fingers, ears, nose mostly.
Thirdly, I did some running in -30 after donning proper clothing and found that if I stopped running, my sweat would freeze and chill me terribly.
Finally, slipping on ice is the other danger not yet mentioned.
Enjoy!