Run in the Winter? Brrrr-ing It On!

When I left Oregon for Rapid City almost thirty years ago, I looked forward to what I considered a “real winter.” I knew that a snowfall in South Dakota would amount to more than a couple soggy inches of white that melted by mid-morning. When I moved to Wisconsin later, I felt the power of a blizzard shut everything down, leaving a stillness interrupted only by a howling wind relentlessly blowing snow. Likewise, I recall my amazement seeing for the first time bank signs displaying below zero temperatures with wind chills dropping the mercury even lower. The undeniable power of winter absolutely fascinated me.

That was then and this is now.

Instead of excitement over an impending winter storm, I now dread it, wondering both the impact it will have on my running and for how long.

That’s the crux of the problem with winter weather as opposed to summer. The effects tend to be of a much greater duration than those of the summer. Don’t get me wrong. I know that weather can be an issue in the summer. No question that thunderstorms are a problem as I’ve also yet to meet anyone who could dodge hail or outrun lightning. Nor would most sane people attempt a long run with the heat index mired in triple digits.

Still, summer storms only last so long and the worst heat can be avoided with an early morning workout. It doesn’t work that way in the winter. For example, if ten inches of snow fall on a Monday, it’s likely at least a day or two until sidewalks and bike paths are cleared. That assuming that the Arctic cold that usually accompanies a snowfall isn’t severe enough to keep everyone but the bravest and most layered of runners inside for several more days.

Once temps resume a seasonal range and pathways clear, then running is less of a problem, provided you’ve the proper attire. Actually, running under these conditions can be rather enjoyable. That is until there’s a thaw and the melting snow refreezing during the night, resulting in thick patches of ice that no runner would dare attempt. And if more snow falls over that, then it’s quality time on the treadmill or indoor track until it’s safe enough to run outside.

Although those conditions are frustrating, they’re also a as much a fact of life in Iowa as deep-fried butter at the State Fair (which I will never touch!). Since I’ve signed up once again for the Red Flannel Run coming up in February, I need to be prepared for a 10K under winter conditions. How I plan to do that is included in the following steps.

1. Keep An Eye On The Running Surfaces. Unlike summer where you can essentially “zone out” during a run, winter workouts often require one eye on the running surface at all times. At any time, there could be patch of ice or slick spot that could lead to an embarrassing fall. Or worse.

2. Learn To Run On Slick Surfaces. Past experience has taught me to keep my feet moving quick with light steps when the surface is slick. It also helps to keep your body perpendicular to the path as that can help regain balance should you slip.

3. Avoid Running On Thick Ice Or Uncertain Conditions. Note that I’m talking about slick conditions in the previous bullet point and not dangerous ones with thick ice from melting snow or snow over ice. That’s when we return the “hamster wheel.”

4. Be Flexible. Ten degrees can mean the difference between running outside or being stuck on the “dreadmill.” The latter doesn’t move the needle for acclimating to winterr temps. But if a wind chill goes from -20 at 6 am to simply 0 degrees at noon, it makes sense to reschedule your workout.

5. Dress For What Feels Best for You. I don’t like to be cold and will err on the side of too much clothing over too little. That can be double or even triple layers when it comes to tops and gloves. Balaclava and other face coverings are also popular with me. If I’m overdressed, I can always remove gloves, face coverings or whatever and stuff them into my running belt or into an empty mailbox that I can pick up on the way back.

6. Maintain An Open Mind. I’m still trying to determine the best way to run in the winter. Balaclavas were not part of my life until last year. Hand warmers may join my repertoire this winter. I’m open to anything that will help.

7. Have a Cell Phone with You. The running belt I mentioned above became part of my workouts last summer. Now I can't picture being without it. You don’t need me to point out the reasons we should never leave home without our cell phones.

8. Understand That Winter Makes Drivers More Dangerous. All runners have horror stories about close calls with drivers who failed to see us. That’s provided us with ample reason for caution. We need to significantly ramp up that caution this time of year as drivers are even less likely to expect runners in winter conditions and may be even less able to stop if they don’t see us.

With a 10K scheduled for next month and a half marathon in mid-March, I’m going to be running outside in winter conditions. It’s my hope that the above techniques allow me to continue to build the base I will need for both races and others to come. If you have any ideas or recommendations, let me know in the comments or on Facebook.