Six Thoughts About Crazy Winter Running

author : Randolph Ray

comments : 2

6 Questions on Winter Running that Might Actually Get You Into it!

Wait, what was that? Winter… and running outside in the cold? Relax, it’s natural you feel this way. In fact, most people out there tend to think of winter running as something that only a mad man would do… or perhaps Rocky Balboa. But what many people don’t know is that winter running can benefit your health and strengthen your immune system if to do it right! This means knowing a few things first and, of course, buying the appropriate winter running gear. So, before you jump on expert sites and start looking for a proper pair, let us answer six essential winter running questions that might convince anyone to give it a shot.

Is Running in the Cold Dangerous?

There are two equally correct answers to this one. The first answer is yes, winter running can be dangerous due to the sudden change of temperature to which the body is not yet used to. And then we can easily slip on the ice and suffer severe injuries. However, the correct answer is no, as long as you make sure to have a short warm-up session and wear adequate winter running gear, you’ll be perfectly safe!

How to Keep Yourself Warm While Running?

They say that the part of our body through which we lose heat the most is the head. But they couldn’t be more wrong! Still, it’s winter outside, and the thermometers probably indicate ridiculously low temperatures. Aside from a short winter running warm-up session that will get your blood pumping, it’s also a great idea to cover your head with a thick beanie, and your hands with gloves.

Moreover, your winter running gear should also include a good-quality top and bottom base layer. This will keep you warm, wicking moisture away, and you can always add extra layers depending on the temperature.

How to Make It More Bearable and Fun?

Well, you can always picture yourself as Rocky, training for his next match in spite of the excruciating weather outside. Joking, of course… but seriously, your mind is directly responsible for this, and, especially if you have already enjoyed this type of exercise, as soon as you warmed up, you will see that the mindset for winter running appeared. The same goes if you like winter and snow in general. Other than this, co-opting a gym buddy to join you in your winter running routine is always a great and motivating idea. Setting goals for each session can make things entertaining, and if you’re also listening to your favorite music, it might make the overall experience an actual delight.

What Should You Wear to Running Outside in the Cold?

We feel like we’ve already covered this one, but not all the way through. So, let’s go all-in this time around, and determine what winter running gear is suitable for a particular temperature:

• 60 °F +: a tank top & shorts will do;

• 50 - 59 °F: short sleeve shirt & shorts;

• 40 - 49 °F: long sleeve shirt, tights or shorts, gloves (optional);

• 30 - 39 °F: long sleeve shirt, tights or shorts, gloves & earmuffs/headband;

• 20 - 29 °F: two layers of shirts (one long sleeve & one short sleeve), tights, gloves & headband; scarf or balaclava that can be removed from your mouth once you warm up;

• 10 - 19 °F: two layers of shirts, tights, windbreaker & jacket, gloves & headband; scarf or balaclava;

• 0 - 9 °F: two layers of shirts, tights, windbreaker & pants, gloves & headband, ski mask or scarf to cover your face.

Wait, didn't we forget something? Oh yes, winter also means ice, and no matter how well equipped you are, if you don’t wear shoes with traction, you can always slip and seriously hurt yourself. So, make sure to put a solid pair of shoes, with protection and traction, on your winter running gear shopping list.

How Cold Is Too Cold for Running Outside?

It may seem like we have everything covered, and we are 100% prepared for winter running. But we shouldn’t fall in the trap of overconfidence. Sometimes, the cold outside will be too cold, no matter how many clothes we put on, or how resilient our winter running gear is. This is usually when temperatures drop very suddenly and you're not able to acclimate, and when Rocky would have second thoughts about exposing himself to such harsh weather conditions.

How Should You Warm-Up Indoors Before Running?

When it comes to winter running, a quick 5 minutes session of indoors warm-up just won’t cut it. Unless you want to put your body through the shock of a considerable temperature drop, make a 15-minute thorough warm-up session, ensuring your muscles have really loosened up, and your blood temperature has risen before you head outside.

Final Thoughts on Winter Running

We have answered six of the most important questions about winter running. But there’s one last thing that any athlete needs to consider, regardless of the discipline and weather conditions. You might not be sweating all that much when it’s 10 °F, but you still have to keep yourself hydrated throughout the whole winter running session.

With this being said, all that’s left to do is to get our hands on the best winter running gear and head outside. May the force be with you!

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date: December 13, 2019