Waking up on a Saturday morning in the middle of January to the crisp air and fresh snow fall can be quite magical. The landscape looks so pristine and peaceful. Soon the slow plows will ruin the perfection and dirty snow will pile at the end of the driveway. But for now, it’s makes me want to… go for a run?

Let’s back up. If you know me, you know I’m a creature of the sun. I live for a long summer day in the heat, sweating through multiple outfits in a single day. I live for the days when I finally rest my head on my pillow and I feel the exhaustion from a sweaty day in the sun melt away. So why does this cold snowy run seem so enticing?

When the weather starts to turn and the snow has only just started, I believe that that is the best time to lace up your shoes. Why? Running through a winter wonderland before the ground is completely covered can make you feel as if you’re running through a snow globe. And, as the snow collects on your coat and eyelashes, you can see yourself turning into Olaf himself! The snow starts to collect a bit more on the ground, and you can hear the crunch beneath you with every step that you take. Speaking of steps, you notice that you are forced to pay attention to your stride for fear of falling. What used to be a repetitive motion is now filled with intention and thought. You force yourself to shorten your stride so you don’t slip and fall! But what you don’t realize is that this is one of the best ways to help your running form! A shorter stride means quicker cadence which means a reduced risk of injury. Wow, this winter running isn’t half bad.

There is also something to be said for the different type of workout you can get from a winter run. If you are running through snow and ice, your body is on high alert. This can help create a “built in” strength workout into your run. By focusing on your footwork to make sure you don’t slip and fall, you are automatically working that back leg harder.

At the end of the day, everyone who knows me knows I will always prefer heat and humidity of summer over the ice and snow of winter. But the reality is, there are benefits to running in the winter. You might as well take advantage of it. If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em! {But really, how many days until Spring?}

 

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