As temperatures drop, so does motivation to be outside and run. If not properly prepared, not only can running in freezing temperatures be uncomfortable, but it can be dangerous as well. Listed below are tips for staying safe, comfortable, and injury-free during the winter months.
Choose the Proper
Fabrics
As the saying goes, there is no such as bad weather, just bad
clothing. When running, avoid cotton
layers. As you sweat, cotton will absorb
the moisture, causing you to feel colder than you truly are. Instead, opt for wool blends or dri-fit
clothing which wick the sweat away from your skin, keeping you warm and
dry.
Wear Layers
Dressing in plenty of layers is the best way to ensure a comfortable
run. As a general rule of thumb, three
layers are sufficient for 0o C, with the addition of a heavier layer
for every 10o C drop. At 0o an example outfit would include a dri-fit t-shirt, a light long sleeve, and a
wind proof jacket. For runners that warm
up quickly, complete the first 1k of your run near your car so that you can
easily ditch a layer if needed.
Protect your Neck
A warm neck can make or break your run.
Consider purchasing a wool neck gaiter, which is a continuous piece of
fabric that wraps around your neck like a scarf.
Consider a Facemask
When the wind is biting, protecting sensitive skin on the face from wind
burn is a necessity. Face masks are
available in many varieties, including full face models or ones that just cover
nose and mouth. When choosing a face
mask look for fabrics that will be comfortable against your skin, but still
breathable, as well as models that do not impede your vision or breathing.
Invest in Good Gloves
Winter running gloves are essential gear for outdoor enthusiasts braving cold temperatures and inclement weather. Designed to keep hands warm, these gloves often feature insulated and moisture-wicking materials that provide a balance between warmth and breathability. Many winter running gloves also incorporate touchscreen-compatible fingertips, allowing users to operate smartphones or fitness devices without removing the gloves. Reflective elements enhance visibility during low-light conditions, ensuring safety during early morning or evening runs. Some gloves are windproof and water-resistant, providing protection against harsh winter elements. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a casual jogger, investing in a pair of quality winter running gloves ensures comfort and protection, enabling you to maintain your running routine even in the coldest months.
Give your Body Time
to Warm Up
Muscles are more prone to injury in cold conditions. Start your runs slower than you normally
would, and consider doing a dynamic warm up, such as leg swings, after a few
minutes of jogging. While supporting
yourself against a fence or sign post, swing each leg back and forth 10 – 12
times to loosen up hips and hamstrings.
Increase Traction
When roads and trails become icy or covered in snow consider purchasing a
pair of YakTrax to improve your traction and decrease your chances of slipping
or falling. YakTrax are a rubber device
studded with spikes that slip over your running shoes to improve your ability
to gain traction in the snow. As an
alternative, you can also drill screws through the bottom of an old pair of
shoes to achieve roughly the same outcome.
Warm Up Your Lungs
If the cold air bites your lungs when you start running, spend 5 minutes indoors warming them up first. Do jumping jacks, run in place, or do a quick round of pushups before heading out the door to avoid the searing lung feeling.
In addition to all of our running inspired articles we also have an excellent eBook (PDF) format for download available. Here is the link to our running eBook that is chock full of helpful running information for beginners. Enjoy!