How to Survive Running in the Winter

Winter started about three weeks early this year. It’s going to be a long one. This morning a few new runners remarked about the difficulty of staying motivated to run during these gloomy months. I used to to feel the same way. Now I just think about adjusting my running schedule and embracing the new season.

Here’s a few other tips that keep me in my running shoes when it’s -20C outside:

The Running Room hosts these chilly half-marathons across Canada between January and March. Now that’s motivation to keep running. Believe me when it’s -30C and there’s two feet of snow on the ground you will want to finish as soon as possible. I’ve done this race every year since I started running. Love it. And the post-race brunch is AMAZING. 
 
Run with Friends
Make a NO CANCEL deal. The first person who fails to show up for no good reason BUYS coffee or something EXPENSIVE. Sign up for a running group. Run with newbies. They are MOTIVATED. 
 
I hate being cold. I hate being cold. Dress smartly and you won’t be cold or get frostbite. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you run out the door. 
 
Switch things up
Taking a break after a season of races and injuries can be WONDERFUL. But it can also hurt your amateur running career if you SLACK too much. Take a break. Reduce your mileage. It can do wonders for your motivation and sanity.

Just DO IT
Running in the winter can be very rewarding. I love coming in from the cold and enjoying a big mug of coffee or hot chocolate. AWESOME. I also know I am adding to my running foundation for next season. Don’t be like those people who just stop exercising once there’s snow on the ground. Come spring there’s more weight on the scale and they have to start all over again. DON’T DO IT.
 
There’s no reason to stop running. Like I said, I hate the cold. But I hate treadmills more. KEEP RUNNING. 

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