When it comes to winter running, the first and foremost of concerns should be to stay warm and dry. If you don’t stay warm and dry, a lot of bad things can happen, particularly if you’re far from home or running solo. If you become wet and cold, you risk hypothermia. And if temperatures are subzero, you risk frostbite.My favorite way to stay warm and dry on the run: fleece! I love, love fleece. Sure, fleece is just little threads of plastic, but it’s excellent at trapping heat and drying quickly! Plus it’s inexpensive and lasts for a long time if you take care of it.
2. Not slipping.
Second of importance on the list of safely running in the winter is avoiding slipping and falling on hidden or black ice. There are many ways you can safeguard yourself against such falls. One way is to avoid running outside and utilize the treadmill. But really, who wants to do that?!
My favorite way to avoid slipping: YakTrax!
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| But don’t wear your YakTrax on pavement or the spikes will snap off! |
3. Keeping yourself hydrated.
Often overlooked is the idea of staying hydrated while running in the cold. Because lower temperatures don’t require us to sweat as much to cool our bodies, we are under the assumption that we don’t need to replace as much fluid. This is very, very wrong and could get you into heaps of trouble if you don’t hydrate throughout your run, particularly if you’re out for longer than 30 minutes.
My favorite way to stay hydrated in the cold: SOS Rehydrate + Orange Mud HydraQuiver Vest. SOS has just enough flavor to keep me sipping but not so much that it’s overwhelming, and my OM vest is easy to slip on and off, has tons of storage space, and the bottle is easily accessible.
4. Being visible.
Contrary to popular belief, it is not easy to see pedestrians against white snow. There are many precautions you can take to ensure you are seen by drivers. Don’t fall victim to the belief that if you wear all black and you’re running against white snow that drivers will see you. They won’t and the car will win.
My favorite way to be visible any time of the year: my reflective vest! A must have for runners everywhere.
5. Having fun!
Don’t underestimate the fun you can have while running in the snow. Sure, it could be treacherous. It might be icy. But if you play your cards right, you’ll have some epic stories and tall tales you’ll be telling for years to come.
My favorite way to have fun on the run: running with pals! Makes for some great laughs and deep moments.
Have a great weekend, y’all. I’ll catch you guys back here on Monday!
xo
TALK TO ME!
What’s your favorite way to stay hydrated?
Do you prefer to run solo or in a group?
This post is linked up with Courtney, Mar, and Cynthia for the Friday Five.
