Why do I feel less strong in cold weather?

[Owlie]

I think it's a combination of more clothes, the fact that I'm breathing cold air and expending more energy to keep warm.

[TrekTheKaty]

There's something to be said about periodic training (I think that's the correct term). The midwest weather doesn't allow us to ride in the winter. We take 2-3 days of spinning (down from riding 5-6 days a week during the summer) to keep up our fitness and then cross train: yoga, weight training, treadmill. Maybe your body is just ready for a break and a change of activities.

[Dianyla]

All of the above, and also investigate Vitamin D deficiency which can impact athletic performance.

[PamNY]

Interesting that Vitamin D should be mentioned. I've become very curious about that.

So, I took a week off and now I'm back to feeling like Wonder Woman. I am burning myself out a bit, and I probably need to rotate activities as was suggested.

However, I think my main problem was in my head -- I just wasn't allowing for the difference cold weather makes and I was getting negative about it. Once I got reassurance here, I was okay. We all know there's a mind/body connection, but this was a good chance to see how powerful that really is.

[TrekTheKaty]

My sister was just diagnosed with dangerously low Vit D levels. Dr. gave her prescription strength vit D, but it made her sick. I told her to ask about light therapy and the Dr. said, "Those lamps are expensive. Try going to the hardware store and buy "grow" lights for plants." She has the lamp next to her stationary bike in front of the TV. Can't hurt!

[malkin]

I think it might be because it is so much work to put on all those layers of clothes, and then squirm and struggle to smooth them all out.

Then I wrastle with those silly shoe covers.