Winter Running Blues
Make winter running a bit better with these tips
Winter running isn’t all sucky like some of us make it out to be.
With a little bit of planning, we can make the most out of the whole winter running experience.
What most people would call a challenge - the cold temps, the shorter days of sun, and less-than-ideal weather - I think it’s all an opportunity that can be overcome and, I believe, will make you a stronger, more resilient runner.
Running in the winter can be very rewarding and more importantly will set you up for some very big spring racing goals you have.
Cold Weather
The best thing I can suggest is to layer appropriately and anticipate the first 5-10 minutes to be on the cold side. If you’re in moisture-wicking gear, you’ll get eventually get warm and the sweat won’t sit on your body making you cold. Just know that you’ll warm up as you get going into your run, so you don’t need to be super warm right from the first step.
Less Sunlight
Running in the dark can be a scary thought for many - and for good reason - but you can set yourself up for some decent runs if you do some planning. Personally, I’ve found that a head lamp and a light up “vest” keep me seen even in the darkest of mornings. I also do my best to run in areas that aren’t isolated.
If Carly and I had a bit more space, we definitely would have a treadmill. That alone would help offset any dangers of running really early or really late.
Crap Weather
When the weather turns for the worst, there are a few things you can do to make the most of the situation. If I needed to, I would join a gym for the days when I just didn’t feel like running in the inclement weather. Or, I would switch up workout days (like Tim and I did this week) to avoid potentially bad weather. If you don’t have to run, I’d switch it up for a cross training day like biking, elliptical, yoga, or some other kind of workout.
…
Despite these potential challenges, winter running can be really rewarding. When you get your winter miles in, you can set yourself up for a really good spring and summer of training.
Have questions? Reply to the email and I’ll get back to you.
If you liked this post, give it a like. [It really boosts my fragile self-esteem :)]
Want to support my writing? Click the link below.
Friday’s Action Plan
If you do a bit of planning you can make running during the winter enjoyable and beneficial.
What Has My Attention:
Winter + Marathons: Pace your run
200 Mile Ultramarathon in a Dark Tunnel
Popular on the Blog This Week:
Reasons to Track Your Shoe Mileage
3 Workouts to Get Back In Shape
Prevent and Manage Shin Splints
…And From the Newsletter:
Interview with John Richardson - Jan ‘23
Quote of the Week:
Stay focused and stay determined. Don't look to anyone else to be your determination - have self-determination. It will take you very far.
How to Connect with Me:
Thanks for reading until the end. You can certainly get a hold of me in any number of ways, but if you have a comment about this post, click below.
You can find me on social media or check out my most popular links including using me as your running coach.
Did you really just love this post? Awesome and thank you. Go ahead and share it!