By: Dr. Ellen Glickman

January 25, 2025

As much of the United States experiences unprecedented cold temperatures—with snow reaching as far south as Florida, Texas, and Louisiana—the challenges of winter weather are top of mind. Canceled flights, icy roads, and frigid conditions are disrupting our daily routines. While the health of airlines, roads, and communities is a pressing concern, one critical aspect often overlooked is our personal health when exposed to the cold. This raises an important question: is cold exposure a friend or foe?
 
Acute cold exposure (ACE) and cold-water immersion (CWI) have been central topics in my research for nearly 40 years. These are not just academic curiosities but are increasingly relevant in modern health and recovery practices. For instance, athletes often use cryotherapy or CWI post-exercise to speed up recovery. Mild hypothermia is even intentionally induced during surgery to slow metabolic reactions and reduce medical complications. Clearly, cold has its benefits, but it also poses risks when not managed properly.

My research has explored how men and women of varying ages, body compositions, and fitness levels regulate their core temperatures under cold stress. One key finding from my early work is the role of shivering thermogenesis. Shivering generates heat, helping leaner individuals maintain core temperature during rest in cold air or water. This insight informed the development of the American College of Sports Medicine’s guidelines for preventing cold injuries during exercise (Castellani et al., 2006).
 
For those venturing outdoors in these extreme temperatures, proper preparation is critical. Clothing choices, fitness level, body fat percentage, age, hydration, and even the time of day all influence how well we handle the cold. For example, if you sweat while exercising in frigid conditions, it’s vital to change into dry clothes immediately to prevent heat loss. Fatigue also exacerbates the risk of cold-related injuries, making rest and proper nutrition essential.
 
As we navigate this polar vortex, it’s worth remembering the historical consequences of extreme cold. Consider President William Henry Harrison’s inauguration in 1841—held outdoors in bitter conditions without proper precautions. His prolonged exposure to the cold, combined with a lengthy speech, led to pneumonia and his untimely death. This historical anecdote underscores the importance of mitigating cold exposure, especially when physical activity is minimal.
 
For modern-day examples, compare standing still in cold weather (as during an outdoor ceremony) to the active heat generation of athletes during a football game. Football players are equipped with pads, coats, heaters, and are actively generating body heat through movement. In contrast, individuals standing still in the cold are far more susceptible to its dangers, particularly if they lack proper clothing or preparation.
 
Practical Tips for Staying Safe and Healthy

1. Layer Up Smartly: Wear moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat away from your skin, followed by insulating layers and a windproof outer shell.
2. Stay Dry: If you’re exercising outdoors, bring extra socks or clothing to change into if you get wet.
3. Short Loops: For runners, consider shorter loops closer to home in case the weather changes or icy conditions become hazardous.
4. Indoor Alternatives: For those unable to exercise outdoors due to conditions like Raynaud’s Disease or orthopedic limitations, a treadmill is an excellent alternative.
5. Monitor Fatigue: Cold can exacerbate tiredness, so ensure you’re well-rested and nourished before braving the elements.

By: Dr. Ellen Glickman

January 1, 2025

Insights on the Mental and Physical Health Risks of Social media at the National Academy of Kinesiology Higher Education Conference (San Juan, PR).

As we step into the new year, a time often marked by resolutions for self-improvement and stronger family connections, it’s crucial to reflect on the pervasive influence of social media on our health and relationships. Dr. Ellen Glickman, a leading voice in health and exercise physiology, will take center stage at the National Academy of Kinesiology Higher Education Conference in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in 2025. Her presentation, titled “Warning: The Use of Social Media is Dangerous to Your Health,” will delve into the alarming parallels between social media usage and public health crises such as tobacco addiction.

“The Surgeon General’s recent comparison of social media to substances like tobacco in terms of health risks is a wake-up call for all of us,” said Dr. Glickman. “As we embrace the opportunities of a new year to better ourselves and our communities, it’s imperative to address the mental and physical well-being of our youth.”

In August 2024, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy made headlines by asserting that social media—particularly for younger age groups—poses significant health risks, comparable to those of tobacco. This bold statement has sparked widespread discussion about the role of technology in mental health crises.

Dr. Glickman’s research builds on this conversation, examining the myriad ways social media impacts mental and physical health.

“We’ve seen clear evidence that excessive social media use correlates with addiction-like behaviors, increased anxiety, and stunted neurological development in children,” Dr. Glickman explains. “It’s not just about screen time, it’s about how these platforms fundamentally reshape our brains and interactions.”

In her presentation, Dr. Glickman will highlight the critical need for societal changes, including banning smartphones in schools and implementing warning labels on social media platforms.

“Children need to play, to experience genuine social connections and independence,” Glickman noted. “Instead, social media leaves them isolated, anxious, and developmentally delayed.”

During a recent overseas trip, Dr. Glickman observed a culture that limited smartphone use, fostering active lifestyles and vibrant community connections.

“It was remarkable to see children engaging in physical activities and adults prioritizing face-to-face interaction,” Dr. Glickman  shared. “This stark contrast to technology-saturated societies underscores the urgent need for change.”

Dr. Glickman’s upcoming presentation will explore actionable strategies to combat the negative effects of social media. Her recommendations include:

• Banning phones in schools to reduce peer pressure and social stigma. • Implementing warning labels to educate the public about the risks of excessive screen time.

 “These measures may seem bold, but history shows us that public health initiatives—like those for tobacco—can save lives and transform society,” Dr. Glickman emphasized.

As we embrace the fresh start of a new year, Dr. Glickman’s message is focused on addressing the addictive nature of social media and fostering creativity, joy, and genuine connections that can lay the groundwork for a brighter, healthier future.

Dr. Glickman’s presentation at the National Academy of Kinesiology Higher Education Conference promises to be a pivotal moment in addressing the health challenges posed by social media. Attendees will gain valuable insights into creating a more balanced, connected, and healthier future.

About Dr. Ellen Glickman:

Dr. Ellen Glickman is a leading expert in exercise physiology with an extensive portfolio that includes approximately 100 scientific journal publications, three technical reports, and a book chapter. A Fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine (FACSM), Dr. Glickman serves as a reviewer for prestigious journals, including Medicine in Science and Sport and Exercise. Recognized for her engaging lectures at national and international conferences, Dr. Glickman has partnered with Orbital Research Inc. to advance the field of environmental physiology through innovative technology. She earned her Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh and has held academic positions at Louisiana State University and Kent State University.