I have a strong hatred for running in cold weather! It interferes with my ability to enjoy a run. Any temperatures above freezing I can handle, but it’s those sub freezing temperatures with wind chill that get me. What seems to be a never ending story will soon end and spring will be right around the corner. Even though it seems winter will never end, I will share a few ideas to keep you motivated.
It’s One thing to be Running in Cold Weather
In past blogs, I’ve covered ideas for staying warm in cold weather. I’ve also covered ways to stay motivated. So how is this one different? This one is just another reminder to stay motivated. In the winter, we need all of the motivation to keep ourselves going. The few months of winter feel like a few years. We all need to keep going.
Here are three ideas to get you though the tail end of this winter, from most to least practical:
- Change Your Routine – sometimes temperatures do warm up closer to the middle of the day. You may not always have the luxury of running at lunch, but it’s a great way to run in slightly warmer temperatures.
- Warming Routine – consider a warm-up activity or consider drinking something warm before you run. Don’t do anything in excess, but this could at least get you warm until you get going. Think warm thoughts.
- Buy New Gear – this may seem silly but buying something small can make the run more enjoyable and make you feel good about yourself. Buy gear to keep yourself warm!
- Vacation Somewhere Warm – the least practical and most expensive idea is to go where the weather is great for running. Consider a race in a warm place or just take a week off to run in the sun. This will really work to elevate your spirits and elevate your motivation.
In Conclusion, Running in the Cold Is….
…something I could live with for a shorter period of time. Running in cold weather is still something I deal with. I do because I know it’s temporary. The motivation to say active and be healthy keeps me going in the coldest temperatures. I also find that purchasing new gear occasionally will also do the trick. Do what you need to do to keep motivated. Find those warm thoughts, lace up the shoes, and head out!