During the winter months, the bitter cold and lack of daylight is often enough to tempt even the most passionate of runners to hang up their sneakers. Don’t let the winter take it’s toll on your exercise regimen! Whether you’re building a new fitness habit or trying to maintain an established base, these tips you can keep working towards your goals all year long – including when the weather takes a turn for the worse.
1. Always run with a group or a buddy.
Run safe! Running alone becomes especially dangerous in the winter when there are less hours of daylight. Some of us just can’t get a run in until after work. In addition to being safe, a buddy by your side or a group run / walk will turn seemingly dreary cold weather exercise into a fun social activity. Pull your motivation from the fact that you won’t be braving the cold alone, and you’ll be strengthening your relationships with friends.
2. Layer, but don’t over do it.
Wearing too many layers is an easy thing to do when you’re facing temperatures below 30 degrees. If you over do it, you risk getting too hot and overheating very early into your run. To avoid sweating in excess, always dress for temperatures about 10 degrees cooler than it actually is. It’ll feel brisk at first, but once you get going your body heat will do a great job of keeping you warm so that you’ll be able to focus on your goal (and not the weather).
3. Hydrate with warm water
Ice cold water doesn’t seem fitting for a winter run, but it’s just as important to hydrate as much as you would for a run during the warmer months. That’s why you’ll want to take along a warm water bottle for winter runs. As an added bonus, you can tuck the water bottle into your jacket for a little extra warmth before the beginning of the run.
4. Wear the right gear
If you’re going to be taking on the snow and ice, you’ll need to wear the right gear, including running shoes specifically designed for winter conditions. A top layer that blocks the wind will also come in handy. Wearing a headband or hat to cover your ears will prevent your ears from aching due to the cold.
With these tips and your determination, the cold won’t hold you back from achieving your health and wellness goals!