As the cold winter months set in, it can be difficult to find the motivation to keep up with your running schedule. You may be tempted to hit the snooze button and stay in bed, or opt for the elliptical trainer at the gym instead of braving the elements outside.
But running in the winter can actually be a great way to stay in shape and beat the winter blues. With the right attitude and preparation, you can make it through even the coldest, darkest days. Here are five tactics for staying motivated to run in the winter:
- Set realistic goals
- Create a training plan
- Find a running buddy
- Invest in the right gear
- Take care of yourself
Embrace the Winter Weather
One of the most effective ways to stay motivated to run in the cold winter months is to embrace the winter weather. Instead of fighting it, let it inspire you. Put on your warmest coat, hat, and gloves, and head out for some winter exercise. Running in cold weather can be invigorating as the cold air invigorates and energizes you. The challenge of running in cold weather can also be rewarding as you push yourself to stay warm and fight off the chill. The key is to dress in layers, which will help regulate your body temperature while you run. Start with a thin base layer of wicking material to help wick away moisture from your skin and keep you warm. Then add on a mid-layer, like a lightweight fleece, for extra warmth. Top off with a lightweight outer layer, like a windbreaker or running shell, to keep out the cold air. Investing in a good set of winter running gear will also help you stay warm and motivated during your runs.
Have a Winter Running Plan
Having a winter running plan is essential for staying motivated in the colder months. Set realistic goals for yourself and make a plan for how to reach those goals. Note down your runs at the start of the week so that you know what you need to accomplish ahead of time. This will help you stay focused on what you need to do and will make it easier to stay motivated. Be sure to account for the weather when you create your plan. If it’s likely to be snowing or the temperatures are going to plummet, adjust your runs accordingly. You may want to opt for a treadmill session, instead of braving the cold. Or you may choose to take a different route on your runs in order to avoid icy areas. Whatever you decide upon, having a plan in place will help you stay motivated to stick with your running routine.
Layer up
As mentioned above, layering is key when it comes to staying warm and comfortable while running in the winter months. Make sure you have the right clothes for the right weather. A good pair of running tights and a warm base layer are essential staples to have in your winter running kit. A lightweight windbreaker or shell can also help protect against the elements. In cold weather, it’s best to avoid cotton as cotton tends to absorb moisture and can make you feel cold. Instead, choose technical fabrics like wicking materials that are designed to draw moisture away from the skin and keep you warm. And always remember to wear a hat and gloves to help keep your extremities warm.
Make sure you’re visible
When running in the winter, it’s important to be seen. With the days shorter and the mornings darker, it can be easier for motorists to miss a jogger out on the roads. So make sure you’re wearing high-visibility clothing and invest in a good headlight and rear light for extra visibility. Reflective tape can also help stay visible when running in low-light conditions. For example, you could add reflective tape to your running hat, shoes, or jacket so that drivers can spot you more easily. It’s also a good idea to have a phone with you in case of emergencies.
Embrace the Winter Scenery
Another great way to stay motivated to run in the winter is to embrace the winter scenery. There’s something special about running in the snow or the early morning while the sun is coming up over a frosty landscape. Take the time to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings during your runs. Listen to the sounds of the winter birds chirping and the crunch of the snow under your feet. Look at the landscape and notice the trees blanketed in snow and catch a glimpse of the winter animals in their natural habitat. Taking the time to enjoy the winter scenery on your runs can help to keep you motivated when the weather is cold.
Conclusion
Staying motivated to run in the cold winter months can be challenging, but with the right attitude and preparation, you can make it through even the darkest days.
