How to Start Running In Winter/Cold Weather — A Beginner’s Help.

Running has changed my life. It has made me healthier and happier. And I mean mentally and physically. 

Running in winter helps people control their behavior and emotions. It also improves focus. You should make it a part of your daily routine.

And running in winter is easier than you think. Sure you will face the snow, ice, and mud sometimes, but it’s really not that constant. Just be very careful of the icy spots and know that snow deeper than 2 or 3 inches can be brutal on your ankles and knees. Otherwise, winter running is great.

The Key Takeaway.

Up for the challenge? You can do it, and it’s easier than you think. Trust me! Just give it a try and let me know how it went. Don’t overthink it. Make it a habit, check the weather, and eat well the day before. You’ve got this! 

Why Run In The Winter/Cold Weather?

Running in hot weather is hard! The heat and humidity makes it hard to breathe, and I get serious and many headaches. Plus, I drink so much water that I can’t hold my pee during the run, and I’m still SO dehydrated! It’s just not fun at all. 

So How Can You Run In Winter Or Cold Weather?

Run As Soon As You Wake Up.

Trust me, your mind will start making excuses to not run as soon as you wake up. It’s better to deal with the things that scare you first thing in the morning. I mean right after you wake up.

This will also help you improve your self-management skills. Doing your running task first thing in the morning frees your mind and gets rid of that constant “I didn’t do it today too” nagging feeling. You know you’ll eventually have to do it later, so why not get it done early anyway? Plus, now you feel accomplished and proud of getting it done and that boosts your confidence and will to do more running.

It’s A New Habit — Build It.

Wake up 45 minutes earlier, run, and then go about your day. When you’re trying to build a new habit, it’s best to do it in the morning. Since it’s new, it’s not natural or easy yet (obviously!). It will take a lot of effort and drain you.

Also, waiting until ‘later’ to do it just lowers your chances of actually doing it, which will make you feel bad anyway.

Eat Well The Day Before.

I’ve noticed that some foods give me more energy than others and what I eat the day before directly impacts my running.

I’m not a nutritionist or anything close so, I won’t give advice on nutrition here I promise.

When you start working out, just be careful of your meals, I mean the quality AND quantity. Not one but both. Also, pay serious attention to any signal your body sends you.

The Excuses Don’t Matter — Get Up And Get Out. 

Every day I thought I wasn’t in the best shape to run or even workout at all, have all ended up being the best active days.

Excuses will come, no lies. It’s a fact. But you choose to listen to them or not. Every time you wake up, your brain will list all the reasons why running is a bad idea. 

But guess what? 

If you keep running daily, you will pay less attention to those excuses. They will still come, but now you know it’s all nonsense. Please, don’t waste time. Get up and get out. The excuses do NOT matter.

Don’t Overthink/Overanalyze It.

Your bed is very warm and comfortable and what you see outside doesn’t look good.

It actually is VERY inviting when you think about how you feel after running. But when you’re leaving a warm and comfy bed to go out in the cold early in the morning, it won’t seem like it. Especially if it’s a new habit. Overthinking takes a lot of energy. Don’t overthink it. Save your energy for the run.

Check The Weather The Night Before And Prepare.

I would have said no need to check (because it will only do more discouraging) but you totally need to know if you should wear an extra layer of clothing or take your jacket with you. So, always check the weather the night before.

Again, don’t overthink it. What it shows doesn’t matter. You’re one step ahead already. Just check the temperature, pick your stuff and leave. If you start checking your weather app while in bed that morning, you won’t run.