Stay Warm During Your Winter Run

Cold weather should not be a dealbreaker for keen runners, on the contrary, running in harsh weather conditions may represent a booming challenge to both novice and expert runners. However, there are a few things to have in mind when you desire to go for a run when the temperatures drop below zero. One of the most essential things is to stay warm and avoid hypothermia and automatically getting injured or ill in any way. Here is a helpful guide that will get you thoroughly equipped on how to stay warm during winter and get the most out of your run.

Layer up wisely

The first mistake is to wear a bulky and thick winter jacket when you go for your winter run. It may keep you warm at that very moment you step out of the house, by the next minute you will be sweating and may suffer from overheating. Leave those heavy garments at home and wear a minimum of three thin or medium layers that will wick off sweat and wind. According to the Runner Click site,  you can find winter running clothing,  that is well-insulated from the cold, avoids contact with moisture, and maximizing performance. All of which are vital for both keeping you warm and insulated.

Choose materials carefully

As you want to stay warm but also work on your stamina and prosper your acceleration, you should stick with wicking materials that help you stay dry and warm from the inside-out. Sweat is a big no-no during winter, and wicking materials will keep it off your skin. Likewise, never choose cotton since it doesn’t block the wind and it retains moisture.

Cover up

You don’t need to worry about catching a cold by excessively breathing in the cold winter air since your lungs can with ease hold up the cold air. The key with breathing while running in winter is to start off slowly, keep a steady pace and let your lungs get used to the cold air. If you desire to stay even warmer, you may cover up your mouth a vented breathing mask. Breathing masks are useful, but covering your head and hands is even more important. Make sure that you wear a hat, gloves, socks, and appropriate neck warmers.

Stretch and warm-up beforehand

It takes a long time for muscles to get warmed up during winter, so it should be of utmost importance to stretch and do warm-up exercises before you go on a run. As you run during winter, your muscles may start to get cold and stiff until you reach your regular running pace, therefore warming them up appropriately will reduce the likelihood of any strains, aches or possible injuries. Do stationary stretching exercises indoors, then do a 10-minute warm-up routine outside in the cold air before you start running. This will heat your body and muscles and prepare you for a warm and safe run.

Choose appropriate winter shoes

It goes without saying that running shoes are the obligatory gear in running, and for winter running they might even be the most crucial part of your whole equipment. Winter trails tend to be we, moist and cold all the time, so it is pivotal to keep your feet dry and warm. Choose road running shoes with lugged soles which preferably have a waterproof membrane inside. These shoes will keep you warm and comfortable plus you won’t have to worry about the slippery or wet road.  A nifty tip is to get a larger size shoe for your feet not to get swollen due to heated compression and sweat.

You too can find pleasure during your winter run as long as you follow meticulously the above-mentioned tips. Human beings are not predisposed to tolerate icy weather conditions that easily, so do your best to stay warm during your winter run.