As the temperature drops, does your commitment to taking outdoor exercise walks or runs decline, too? You can continue exercising outside in cold weather--and even find it comfortable and enjoyable--if you follow a few basics on staying dry and warm:

• Dress right. Wear three layers of clothing, advises the American College of Sports Medicine. Closest to your skin, wear thin garments made of polyester or polypropylene. These pull sweat away from your skin, helping you stay dry and warm. Don't wear cotton or wool against your skin, since both hold moisture.
  
• For your second layer, "focus on insulation. Fleece works well," says Debi Pillarella, M.Ed., a spokesperson for the American Council on Exercise and program director at the Community Hospital Fitness Pointe in Munster, IN. For the top layer, she recommends choosing a windproof and waterproof jacket with goose down lining to retain body heat without weighing you down.
  
• Use the same three-layer principle for gloves or mittens, Pillarella says. Polypropylene glove liners are helpful. Mittens keep hands and fingers warmer than gloves.
  
• For your feet, the ACSM recommends wearing polypropylene inner socks and an outer heavy woolen sock. Check that footwear is large enough to accommodate the extra socks you need. Tight shoes or boots reduce circulation and make your feet and toes colder. Footwear should have good traction soles.
  
• Head covering is a must for retaining body heat. Pick wool or fleece hats. Be sure to cover your ears, too. On cold, windy days, Pillarella advises that people who have breathing problems, including asthmatics, wear face masks to keep inhaled air warm and humid.
  
• Check the wind chill before going out. Exercising in winter wind increases the effects of low temperature and heightens your risk of frostbite.
  
• Just as in warmer weather:
  
  • Stretch and warm-up (indoors is okay) before beginning your exercise;
    
  • Drink water or sports drinks to stay hydrated (dry winter air increases water loss);
    
  • Use sun block on exposed skin and lips and UV-rated eye protection.
    
• Is it ever too cold to exercise? "If the temperature falls below zero, or if the wind chill equates to less than 20° below zero, you should participate in indoor activities," says Pillarella. She suggests mall walking, exercising to DVDs or videos, or going to a gym.

NOTE: Skiing, snow boarding, snowshoeing and other outdoor sports require special gear and equipment. Consult an expert to make sure you have what you need.