“It’s Too Cold”

“It’s too cold.”

“The gym is warm. I’ll go there and run on the treadmill.”

“It’s too dark in the morning…and at night. I don’t want to run in the dark.”

“I can’t breathe when I run in the cold. It hurts.”

“It’s snowing, I can’t run in that.”

Really? Really?

A little dark, a lot snowy…but not so bad.

Winter running isn’t for some people. That’s fine. But while you’re bouncing along on the treadmill inside your cozy gym, I’ll be outside, cruising around Irondequoit Bay through snow, sleet and whatever else winter throws my way.

And I’d love to convince you that you, too, can enjoy winter running. It’s not so scary. (OK, it’s a little scary at first, but let’s talk it out.)

Last winter I was going through some ctazy personal stuff. I knew that running would make me feel better and would distract me from my drama, Hey, there is always something in life that will surprise you, so that is not an excuse for me. But I also knew there was snow on the ground…and sometimes ice…and sometimes hail beating down from the sky…head winds in my face, frozen fingers…

But I still ran.

By 4:30 this morning, I already had brewed myself a cup of coffee and went tiptoeing through the house plucking various pieces of running gear from radiators and drying racks.

I laced up my running shoes, slathered my cheeks and lips with Vaseline and any other chafing has occurred; and reached for the front door.

Everybody needs fresh air. Some need it more than others. I’m one of those people who desperately needs it, who relies on it, who can’t feel happy or creative or organized or even remotely sane without a daily appointment with nature.

So, for the past few years, I have risen almost daily — usually before the dignified hour of 5 a.m., when my schedule is sure to be free of conflicts — to run about seven, ten, fourteen, eighteen miles on roads and trails near my Rochester home.

Sure, I’ve dabbled in cross-country skiing and snowshoeing over the years. I even done downhill skiing in subzero temperatures in previous winters.

I learned to layer up and power through, and not only did I get through last winter running outside nearly every day, I thrived in the upcoming season. Running outside in cold snowy conditions just makes you stronger. The treadmill and me? We’re simply not a good match.

Last week I sweated for 1 hour 15 minutes in a Power Vinyasa Yoga class @ Midtown. It’s a stretching recovery moment for me, and while that was a hot mess great stretch strengthening class, I much prefer the windy chilly temps & sweat-cicles I endured this morning when I covered 16.88 miles around the Irondequout Bay in Rochester, NY

You may still be thinking, “I don’t want to run outside in the winter.” Totally cool. But in case there’s a chance you can be swayed, here are some reasons why I Love Winter Running:

I find I prefer the simplicity of running.

In warmer weather, my daily run serves up sunrises and plenty of good company — mallards, cardinals, a fellowship of friendly local runners.

But in the darkness of a cold winter morning, I have the place — meaning the city’s expansive parklands — mostly to myself. It’s like stepping into an empty but beautifully maintained country chapel. The mood is set by the candle-like glow of distant streetlamps. On clear mornings, the sky is studded with trees and buildings and stars. In hazier conditions, city lights lend the scene a certain pink aura.

And it’s quiet there. The only sounds are my breath and the dampened thud of feet hitting snowpack.

Winter running is inspiring and refreshing and life-affirming. I’m left feeling grateful for my physical health and for living in this lovely frozen city.

1. You get to dress in layers, which means you get to buy cool running stuff. Yes, it is cold outside. I’ve been over that. I remember running one winter morning this year when it was six degrees. Single digits, man. That’s a little terrifying. But the frigid weather isn’t so daunting when you’re wearing a warm ColdGear Infrared Balaclava hood and layered clothing with windbreaker.

I still recommend wearing base layers that are moisture-wicking, because you’ll still sweat plenty in the winter (notice sweat-cicles hanging from my temples), but other than that throw on whatever you’ve got and get cozy before you head outside.

Oh, and don’t forget that wind is the more persistent challenge. I’ve learned Vaseline offers some protection against sleet and gusts off Lake Ontario. I will never abandon my beloved lake on the windiest winter days. Because there is no joy in a 30 mile-per-hour slap to the face, especially when it comes from the north west.

2. You Have Your Own Winter Wonderland

Running in the cold means you get amazing winter paths and views to yourself. Plus it’s an excuse to buy toasty new stuff. But the best bit is arriving home and rehydrating with a cup of tea or coffee.

I love running in the cooler months because it’s my way of staying in touch with nature and my body. Being outside is one of the best ways to catch sunlight and a satisfying way to feel connected with my community.

As soon as the temps drop I become Buddy the Elf. The chilly air keeps the crowds away from the best routes, and my heart rate is a bit lower. Plus the hot bath afterwards is just the best.

Cold and snowy weather is my favorite!! As someone who seems to overheat easily, winter is my time to shine lol! Then snow just adds a fun new challenge to every run! Plus it’s super pretty and peaceful to watch snow fall while you run!

Honestly, the world looks so different covered in ice and snow than it does when it’s warm, and most of the time spent the winter months cozied up inside by a fire and  miss out on embracing Mother Nature and her limitless winter beauty! Running allows for me to get out there, get my workout done, and appreciate nature during a season that a lot of people will overlook or avoid!

I love running in the cold. There’s something about being out there when no one else is around. The beauty of a winter wonderland is unparalleled. The crunch of the snow, the cool air, everything white covering the dirt…it’s magical.

3. The sunrises are better in the winter. I don’t know why, but they are. They’re just more colorful or something. Trust me. Get out and see one. Plus, the sun rises later, so you don’t have to be outside at 5 am in order to see the sun come up.

4. It’s less crowded. In the summer, Rochester. NY roads are packed with runners. And the Irondequoit Bay Bridge is open so you can’t cross. Everyone is out, everyone is training for something. But in the winter, there are fewer people throwing elbows at you when you run on the roads.

5. You’ll feel hardcore. On really blustery days, like this morning 3° and windy along the Lake, face unbearably numb, I rarely see other runners but when I do I wave and say “hello”. Love smiling at few other runners who are out braving the elements. It’s like you share this secret little “We’re stupid and we know it” bond.

6. You’ll appreciate your hot epsom salt baths afterwards so much more with power map there after. And maybe a cup of hot chocolate. I love hot black coffee, too!  A 20 minute power refreshes me and I am ready to go enjoy the rest of my day.

7. You just may run faster. OK, if there’s ice on the ground, maybe slow down a bit. Or not. Do whatever you want. But on regular, non-icy pavement, I assure you I run faster than I do in the summer. I’m still not breaking any world records, except maybe the record for Most Bathroom Stops During A Run (kidding) but I definitely feel much speedier in cooler temperatures.

8. Your lungs will adjust. I have a friend who tells me that he can’t run outside in the winter because it hurts to breathe. I’ve been there. When I first started winter running I had a hard time, too, but eventually my lungs got on board with the outdoor activity. Now I feel fine when I run, and though sometimes I’ll cough a bit afterward, I’m usually fine as long as I hydrate before, during and after my run. But water + cold = Tony’s lungs are happy.

9. Snow is pretty. Sometimes it’s annoying, but other times it’s kind of nice. I reallly want to go for long run’s in the winter to “check out the snowy city, lakes, and suburb area.” If I go for a run I’m much warmer and I still get to see the lovely sights.

10. You’ll really appreciate it when springtime rolls around. Bang out a few speed sessions or long runs in the snow and by the time the ice is melting and the flowers are blooming, you’ll be psyched. You’ll be like, “OMG I’m so tough, I ran all winter and now I’m being rewarded with 50-degree runs. Life is fantaaaastic!” Really. That is the exact conversation you will have with yourself. Or with me…on FBMsg. I look forward to it.

11. You’ll be really happy you did it. I do love winter running. Have I made that clear yet? But I won’t lie and say that I bounce out of bed on every 20 degree morning dying to bust out the Adrenalines and hit the roads There are days when my bed is so warm and I want to stay in it forever. That is the case some mornings especially rotating in night runs, speed work, and HIIT, Core & Power Vinyasa Yoga classes at Midtown. But I got up, ran, loved it and felt so good afterward.

So give winter running a try, won’t you? Maybe not once. Maybe a few times, to really test out your clothing and see how you feel. You may still hate it. That’s cool. We can still be friends.

Oh and yes, if you’re wondering, “Is it normal that my boogers freeze when I run in the cold?” the answer is “Yup. Super normal.”

TELL ME: Are you a fair-weather runner or are you game for hitting the streets no matter the weather?