Whenever someone asks me why I run outside during the cold, dark winter months, I have a basic spiel that I go through to convince them (and remind myself) why I love running through the winter. Although it can be tough to muster up the motivation and courage to run in the cold weather, if you think about reasons why it’s really amazing, you’re more likely to get out there.
If you prefer to run indoors (or take a seasonal break from running) during the winter months, here are some reasons for running in cold weather. Take a look, think about your own reasons for loving cold weather running, and then revisit them when your motivation needs a boost.
1. It’s not crowded.
I frequently run in New York’s Central Park and it gets packed with runners, walkers, tourists, and cyclists during the summer months. Many of runners’ pet peeves, such as sharing recreation paths with cyclists, are not an issue in the winter. Parks and paths clear out and don’t have to worry as much about weaving around other runners or cyclists.
2. You can avoid germ-filled gyms.
With lots of runners heading indoors in the winter, you’ll face long waits (especially during the first two weeks in January) for treadmills and other machines at the gym. And, since it’s cold and flu season, you’ll also be exposed to lots of germs circulating around the gym.
Even if you’re diligent about wiping down machines and washing your hands, there’s still a good chance that you’ll pick up some bug at the gym. I always find that I stay healthier when I run outside on a regular basis during the winter months.
3. The scenery is beautiful.
Snow on the ground can completely transform your usual running routes and give you a completely fresh perspective. With the leaves off the trees, you’ll see views that are blocked in the warmer months. I frequently run on a trail near the Hudson River and I can see the water and bridges clearly during the winter months, as opposed to just occasional views in the summer.
4. It’s invigorating.
There’s something about cold, winter air that is just so energizing. Sure, the first five minutes or so of a cold run might feel a little uncomfortable, but once you’re warmed up, it feels great to be outside and breathing in the fresh air. Following a few tips on how to make your cold weather runs more comfortable can add to your overall enjoyment.
5. A hot shower never felt so good.
During the last mile or two of a long run in the cold, I’m usually thinking about that glorious hot shower that I’ll be taking once I get home. It definitely feels like a well-earned treat and is a great motivation for getting out the door. I usually follow it up with a hot cup of coffee, which also feels like a reward for my cold weather miles.
6. You don’t have to worry about overheating.
A huge benefit of cold weather running is that you don’t have to worry about overheating or suffering from heat-related illnesses. It’s essential to dress in layers for winter runs, so that you can just take off a layer if you start to heat up. I like to wear a jacket or pants with pockets, so I can stuff a running hat or running gloves in them if my head or hands get warm.
7. You don’t need any (or maybe just a little) sunscreen!
One of my favorite aspects of running outside in the winter is that, unlike summer running, I don’t have to worry about slathering on sunscreen all over my body. The sun is not as strong during the winter and my entire body is basically covered in clothes, so sunburn isn’t a concern. I usually put some moisturizer with SPF on my face and I’m good to go.
8. You’ll feel pretty hard core.
“You run outside in this weather?!” is the response you’ll often get from impressed friends and family members. Not a lot of runners are willing to brave the elements and run outside when the temperatures drop. Getting through a run in the cold will not only boost your running confidence, but you’ll also feel like a bad ass runner.
9. You don’t have the difficult transition from treadmill to outside running.
Treadmill running is somewhat easier than running outside, and runners who ran on the treadmill all winter sometimes suffer with sore leg muscles or shin splints as they re-adjust to running outside in the spring. If you’re doing some early spring races, you’ll feel much more prepared, having run a lot of miles on the roads.
More Cold Weather Running Tips:
8 Tips for Making Cold Weather Running More Comfortable
Best Running Gloves and Mittens
Outdoor Winter Cross-Training Activities for Runners
Cold Weather Running Safety Tips
Couldn’t agree with you more. I also like to run in the winter, although I mostly do sprints.
However, when you are running in cold weather I think warming up becomes more important.
Marcus@strengthery recently posted…Best Posture Corrector For Women
Absolutely – warm up is key! I like to do my warm-up indoors – makes the transition to cold much easier.
Christine Luff recently posted…4 Marathon Workouts to Run a Faster Marathon Time
Great idea! Will try it next time 🙂
Marcus@strengthery recently posted…TimTam vs Theragun – “Massage Gun-Down”