Winter: the season that many runners dread. The days darken, the temperatures drop, and conditions often turn icy, wet and stormy. Suddenly, the idea of lacing up your running shoes and heading out into the freezing mist becomes much less appealing. However, with the right mindset and preparation, you can build motivation for even the most uninviting of wet, windy winter runs. Here’s how.
Add the Right Gear to Your Arsenal
Switching your summer running gear for winter-friendly alternatives makes a significant difference to your comfort and motivation. A high-quality, weather-resistant running jacket is essential. Dealing with the elements in a jacket that allows movement while keeping you warm and dry can fundamentally change your perception of running in winter.
It’s also important to invest in proper footwear with good grips to prevent slipping on wet or frozen surfaces. Moisture-wicking underlayers, thermal socks, gloves, and a warm hat can also go a long way in keeping you motivated. After all, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just unsuitable clothing.
Adapt Your Training Plan
If your running calendar currently consists of long, challenging runs, it may be time to reconsider. Darker days and slippery surfaces increase the risk of injuries, so it’s only sensible to adapt your running schedule. Splitting your mileage over shorter runs can help. Consider a run in the morning and again in the afternoon or evening.
Also, include indoor training sessions to maintain your fitness. Incorporate cross-training such as yoga, Pilates, or strength training, all of which complement running and can improve performance.
Find a Running Buddy
Training with a friend can greatly enhance your running motivation. When you arrange to meet a buddy for a run, you’re far less likely to bail due to the weather. Plus, everything feels more manageable when you’re doing it with someone else. New challenges now become shared adventures.
What’s more, engaging in a bit of healthy competition with your running partner can push you harder and help you improve. A little competitive urge can spur you on to run that extra mile, even in lousy weather.
Stay Focused on Your Goals
Winter training often serves as preparation for spring races. So, remember what lies ahead. Keep your long-term goal in sight to stay motivated. For instance, if you’ve signed up for a marathon, visualise crossing the finish line while training in extreme conditions. This approach helps maintain motivation, even in the harsh winter months.
Celebrate the Positives
Despite the initial resistance, running in the rain, snow, or wind can be enjoyable too! Remember the exhilarating feeling of conquering harsh weather, and how invigorating it can be to breathe deeply of the icy, fresh air. The enigmatic beauty of the winter landscape, the crunch of frost underfoot, and the solitude of empty trails – these little joys are unique to winter runs.
Reward Yourself
Giving yourself a reward to look forward to after a wet, windy winter run can make the experience more appealing. Maybe it’s a long, hot shower followed by cracking open a new novel or a cup of your favourite coffee. Perhaps you have a binge-worthy series waiting on Netflix. By pairing something you’re dreading (running in rough weather) with something you’re excited about (an hour of guilt-free Netflix), you can strengthen your motivation to head out the door in the first place.
Winter may not be the easiest or most inviting time to stay committed to your running regime, but with the right mindset, running gear and strategy, it can be one of the most rewarding. After all, if you can motivate yourself for those wet, windy winter runs, you can surely run through anything! Motivation is a mental muscle, and winter is the perfect season to strengthen it.
