Running in the Winter

This has to be the hardest time of the yeat to get out and go for a run. The extreme cold can really kill somone's motivation. With a couple of ideas and tips, getting out when there is 3 inches of snow on the ground will be just as easy as going for a run when it is 68' and sunny!!

1. Dress Appropriately

Of course this is a simple idea, but how many people really know what articles of clothing will a.) keep you warm b.) keep you light c.) keep you dry.

The key to this is layers. The first layer should be a base layer. The Under Armour type of tights work great here. They keep you warm and wisk the sweat away from your skin. If it is cold out, I will just go out in some tights for the bottom half (Yeah I do get complaints) :) On top, where the core is, I go with three layers. The base layer (Under Armour), then a cotton layer for added warmth (This is short sleeve or long sleeve depending on just how cold it is), then a wind breaker over top of that. This wind breaker keeps wind and rain/snow away from my body.

Don't forget about your gloves and a hat of some sort. I have noticed that if you cover your core (Heart, Lungs, etc.) Properly, your hands will stay warm. If you don't keep your core covered, then the hands will be the first to suffer. The hat, I remember my grandmother always telling me that 80% of your body heat is released through your head. Don't know how right she was but I think it would be silly not to wear one. I have a nice one that is double layered around the ears to make sure they stay warm and comfortable.

2. Be Consistent!

I read this article and posted it on TriStateRacer.com in hopes of encouraging people to get out and run during the winter. To parapharse the article, they say and I agree that the more you make it a habit, the easier it is to get out and run not matter what mother nature throws at you!

You don't have to go and try to kill yourself everyday, just make it a habit to make sure you get a run in everyday that you have planned. If you have planned a run and see it through, then it will not only make you a better runner, help you lose weight, and help you win a trophy at one of the local road races but it will also help you build character and personal strength.

3. DON'T MAKE EXCUSES!!!

Read THIS!!!!

The best part of this article is that they mention that more injuries happen in the Summer than in the Winter! When considering injury's, how can you find a better running surface then 1/2 inch or so of soft snow. Feels GREAT!!!


4. Take Someone With You

Everything is better when you do it with someone else!! From doing the dishes to running. If you find a training partner or group, then they will help motivate you. I always find that when I am scheduled to meet someone, it is much easier to get out the door and get my run in.


5. Ok, So You Don't Want to Go Outside!

They do make treadmills. However, they are not for me, but if you have one and you are getting on them and being consistent, good for you!! The fact that you get on the treadmill and you are moving is the most important part! I haven't been on one since a trip over a year ago to Columbus when they got 2 or 3 inches of snow and I was stuck in the Hotel. Not a bad experience!!


Hopefully some of these ideas, tips, and such will help you get out and go run. I know just thinking and writing about them has for me!! In fact, I am going to go put on my three layers, only tights over the legs though (Sorry if you drive by and see me) and get my 4-5 miles in for the day!!