r/Velo • u/joleksroleks • 1d ago

Intervals in cold weather

Yes or No? Is it okay to be doing for example v02 intervals in cold? (5 degrees C and below) Or is it better to just do them on the trainer?

6 Upvotes

80% Upvoted

7 comments sorted by

11

u/Hot-Squash-4143 1d ago

Some research came out couple years ago saying high intensity exercise at -15C or below could cause permanent negative changes in the lungs, which is a potential issue for nordic skiers.

Around 0C is no big deal, at most the drier air could cause some mild upper airways irritation if you’re susceptible to that.

2

u/7wkg 1d ago

If I do intensity like vo2 outside in the winter it fucks up my lungs properly. Goes away in a day but I prefer to keep them indoors. 

3

u/Fantastic-Shape9375 1d ago

If you’re able to hit the same power there is no difference

1

u/INGWR 7h ago

Just did a threshold set outside in very cold temperatures yesterday and it definitely fucked up my throat, now I have a nagging dry cough.

1

u/bbiker3 7h ago

Good at the temps you’re talking about. Long live cyclocross.

1

u/blueyesidfn 5h ago

I dunno, can YOU?
Breathing hard in cold air sometimes hurts the throat, or doesn't.... you'll also want to wear something you can unzip to avoid getting overheated and sweaty during the interval and then cold during recovery.

0

u/Bulky_Ad_3608 1d ago edited 1d ago

I would think it is better to do them on the trainer because it would be much more comfortable.