Here are some tips I've found from my own experience that will hopefully get you started!
1. Wear the right attire. This is probably the most important thing! This is one of the times that I will dish out the extra money and make sure I buy quality gear. It's worth it, trust me! Here's my go to gear:
Clothing tips:
- One rule of thumb is to dress 15 to 20 degrees warmer than it is outside.
- Dress in layers! That way if you get warm, you have the option to take something off. I always wear my fitted Under Armour (2) as a first layer and then I'll put on a heavier layer (8) to help as a wind and/or water repellent.
- My tights are my best friend while running! I have the Muzino tights that actually trap in and hold the heat. I can't say enough great things about this brand!
- Make sure you have quality shoes!
- My go-to brands are Muzino, Nike, Under Armour! I usually go to the outlet malls to save money.
3. Have the right music. Music makes everything better.
4. Stretch! Take more time to warm up to let your body adjust to temperature.
5. Stay safe. It's probably obvious but don't do anything stupid. I don't run outside when there is ice or if it's freezing. No need to risk getting an injury.
6. Get used to the cold gradually. I was lucky because when I started running it was in the 60's. I body adapted to running outside gradually with the weather changes. I would not suggest going out for a run if it's below 30 for the first time. I would run inside until you have a day where it's a bit warmer to help your body and breathing adjust.
7. Hydrate. An obvious but important reminder!
Today I'm linking up with Synfully Delicious, Covered In Grace, Going with the Flow, Fit Friday, Honor, Courage, and Commitment and Lovercase Letters
I'd love to hear what suggestions you have to add to my list?!
Great post Melissa! Full of great tips and encouragement. I'm so happy you mentioned Muzino...I've been looking for a good pair of running pants and wasn't sure which brand to go with.
ReplyDeleteP.S. You look adorb's in that picture!
I agree - great post! I was never a runner until a few months ago. You are absolutely right about needing the right gear - and the shoes are the big thing for me. I can't run in traditional running shoes, because I suffer horrible knee pain and shin splints. Once I discovered barefoot running, I found I can run pain-free. Now I've discovered a new passion for running! My go-to shoes are New Balance Minimus with vibram soles. They are awesome! I, too, love my insulated tights, although mine are Reebok - got them for 50% off during the holidays.
ReplyDeleteHappy running to you!
That's awesome! I want to try barefoot running someday too! Thanks for the tip on brand :)
DeleteExcellent post! Thank you for it! These are such a good tips for me to keep in mind as it is winter here in Alaska (oh and every where else in the world) but it is no excuse not to get outdoors and get a run in!
ReplyDeleteI love this! I'm not much of a runner but I really want to get better at it even in this bitter cold weather!
ReplyDeleteGreat tips!!! Maybe this will motivate me to get out there in the freezing cold!
ReplyDeleteNew follower from the blog hop! Hope you stop by and follow me back!
Phylicia
http://heartsncraftsboutique.blogspot.com/
Great! It helps to not think about the cold before heading out.
DeleteI ran at night when it was 19 degrees a few weeks ago...I wish I would have had these tips then! Very useful!
ReplyDeleteYour blog is adorable :) I'm visiting from the GFC hop.
i feel your pain.
ReplyDeletei trained for the chicago marathon and it was soooo cold here in feb.
watch out for black ice!
xo the egg out west.
Great tips! I need to shell out the extra dough for this gear. Saturday I ran a 5k in 34:25 (super proud) I had my leggings on, a short sleeve quick dry and long sleeve quick dry with gloves, ear warmers, and a fleece on top. I was cold for the first five minutes and then I warmed up from the movement. :) Esther Norine Designs
ReplyDeleteCongrats!! That's a great time too!
DeleteI just started the Couch25K program last month! I didn't like the fact that I was starting in the winter and it'd be cold but I always have excuses so I decided not to make that be yet another one. Surprisingly it's been working out just fine. The hard part isn't the cold...it's the running, lol! So glad I've found these tips!!!
ReplyDeleteI'm co-hosting "Tell Me About it Tuesday" and found you through your link! Thanks for linking up :)!!!
Heyy! Just found your lovely blog - great post!
ReplyDeleteI'm in Canada and have really actually embraced winter running this year. I'm not a big fan of the heat/summer, so i've enjoyed the cooler weather to run in!
Great post- I love some of those items. I'm not running right now, but I am trying to get out and walk. I also like to bring tissues and chapstick when it's cold! My lips are chapped and my nose is always running. If I can take care of those issues I am more likely to continue on my run/walk.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, great tips. I am slowly starting to run again after a long hiatus. I need all the tips/help I can get!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tips and for linking up! Following you now!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for the tips. I have been avoiding running outside because of the temperature (and I don't like to run). I may need to invest in some gear and quit making excuses! Visiting from the Fitness Friday Link-up!
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with each of these tips! Running in the cold can be intimidting, but having the right equipment does make it easy. I also love Mizuno and Under Armour. So toasty and warm. Thanks for linking up!
ReplyDeleteThese are great tips! I probably won't start running in the cold quite yet, I have to get used to running in normal weather first! I'm definitely pinning this!
ReplyDeleteThank you for linking up!