One of the hardest parts of winter running is simply getting out of bed and out the door. As soon as the alarm clock goes off in the morning, the mental discussion begins: Get up or sleep in? Run or day off? Likewise, it is also difficult for those who run in the evenings to get out the door after work in the dark and cold.
Winter running is the time to develop your mental toughness and up your game. Finishing a run under miserable weather circumstances is an incredible confidence booster, and it will help get you out there next time.
The winter- and dark-running season calls for a shift in your workout perspective. Rather than focusing on the physical, like distance and pace, the winter can be a great time to focus on the mental aspects of running. Clearly defining your primary goal for your running will help you determine your winter training plan. Then, you can apply some of the tips listed below to help you achieve that goal.
Consider using a three-day-a-week training plan
Run outside just three days per week to minimize time outdoors. You can opt to supplement this running with cross-training indoors two or three times a week.
Register for races
Use local, shorter races for short-term motivational goals. You can use the low-key races as your speedwork. Sign up for as many races as you can to keep yourself busy. For a longer-term goal, consider registering for a longer destination race at the end of your winter training cycle. (Think of this race as a reward.)
Recruit a running partner, whether a friend or your dog
Or, join a running group for support. Knowing you are meeting someone gets you out of bed and out the door. (Note: This only works if your running partner is just as committed as you are!) Joining a running group gives you multiple running partners in the event someone doesn’t show.
Remind yourself daily of your goal
Whether your goal is running longer or faster, improving fitness, or losing weight, remind yourself of this often. Stick reminders on the bathroom mirror, the refrigerator, your car, or your workout bag.
Commit to be fit
When the alarm goes off and the mental argument of whether to sleep in or run begins, which one will win? Every time you get up and run, you reinforce that behavior. Every time you bag it and sleep in, you reinforce that behavior. So, reinforce the behavior you want to win.
Make a “bad weather plan”
It’s okay to give yourself an alternative in the event of ice, sleet, or other dangerous conditions. Decide now what that plan will be: swap run days, get up and do a workout at home, or go to the gym and try some yoga.
[Stay injury free on the road by getting on the mat with Yoga for Runners.]
Always prepare your clothing and workout bag the night before
Have everything ready to go so you do not need to spend any time preparing or even thinking about what you need in the morning. If you are a coffee drinker, have the coffee pot set to brew so it’s ready when you are.
Run in the morning
Some studies show that morning exercisers have a higher success rate than evening exercisers. They believe this is because of a lack of interference of responsibilities in the early morning hours. Late meetings after work, kid responsibilities, and other commitments are more likely to come up in the afternoon than early in the morning.
Plan rewards
Prepare some rewards for yourself, both short-term and long-term. Consider including massages, pedicures, manicures, lunches or dinners out, or buying new running clothing as a reward system for completing your running plans.
Cold-Weather Running Gear
Made of 100 percent merino wool, this beanie is perfect for all wintry weather thanks to a double-locked construction.
Nike’s dri-fit technology is designed to be ultralight and sweat-wicking while keeping you covered.
Under Armour's ColdGear® leggings are designed to combat chilly weather.
The lightweight, breathable fabric packs a punch against inclement weather. Shop women's here.
Invest in the right running clothes
Having the right gear for any sport is essential, so invest in the appropriate running gear you need for your weather. (You can find a good starter list right here.) It will make getting out in cold weather much more tolerable.
Related video: Get ready to run with this winter prep workout.
Susan Paul has coached more than 2,000 runners and is an exercise physiologist and program director for the Orlando Track Shack Foundation. For more information, visit www.trackshack.com.
