Here in Atlanta, we’ve experienced a temperature drop of about 40 degrees over the past 24 hours — and from seeing the news this morning, it looks like millions more across the country are waking up to a few inches of snow. Does weather like this push you back to running indoors on the treadmill, or do you brave the cold outside? And if so, how do you run safely in cold like this?
Also, good luck and BIG love to everyone running NYC this weekend — and any other race! Let us know how it goes. — Terrell
I mostly run outside during the winter. If it gets down below zero that will usually send me indoors to the treadmill. When running outside I dress in layers and the colder it is the more layers I wear. I also have an assortment of buffs, hats, and a nice balaclava that I use depending how cold it is. Last winter I purchased a pair of Saucony Perrigrine Ice running shoes and they have been great for running in the snow and ice. I'm fond of saying there is no bad weather just bad outfits.
Hershey PA- I actually love running in the cold and find my pace definitely improves. I’ll run in temps down to the high teens. A run on a cold sunny winter day is just so beautiful and inspiring. Layers for sure. Hat and gloves a must. Now that I said all that, today I’m worried about running in the sudden temperature drop! The whine on me will rear it’s head on occasion but I’ll do it and then wonder why I was worried! Running the Gettysburg Half Marathon this Sunday. A large portion of it is right through the battlefields. Talk about sad and inspiring.
I’ve been running for just a few months but we get both extremes in the upper Midwest. Heat is avoidable but the impending cold has been fun to maneuver. I have been out in as low as 15 this “autumn” already. Full length leggings, compression knee highs, reg. socks, tank, L/S seamless zip up, lightweight fleece zip up, gloves and a lightweight hat has gotten me this far. It’s a balancing act because if you are overdressed you sweat and then freeze. I journal my runs every day and note temp, wind and detailed outfits. Then I can refer back.
Okk, I’m so grateful for this question and the feedback. I’m the worst at the cold weather. Last year around this time or the fall I trained for a had marathon, I’m down for another I can’t seem to endure this weather. Last year though I had a good friend to encourage me but she moved. So I’m
Left to my own devices not working well at all. I know about layering up, but to get started I’m blocked. I look forward to reading to help me! You guys rock!! Thank you
Wool layers work really well - keep you warm when you need it and not too hot. I also put shea butter on my face if it's really windy and in the 20's or below - helps to prevent chapping if your eyes stream as much as mine do. Seat warmers for the drive home are heaven!
I just wear thermals under my shorts, a long sleeve running shirt, and a hat. I have found no matter how cold it is once I get a couple miles into the race it no longer matters. Yes, I have a race this weekend.
I tend to overheat in a race so when cold, rainy on day of race, I go to a local thrift store and purchase cheap old jackets, gloves ( I cut fingers out) that you can take off in a race, if needed. These items are collected throughout the end of race and provided for the needy. Good luck!
Maybe I’m a weirdo, but I don’t really hate the treadmill. I’ll download a movie Or my shows and use my headphones To watch/listen. Even when cold weather (or too hot — Vegas) shows up, I’m still motivated to run because I want to catch up on my show.
I've found that as my age rises so does my temperature threshold for running outside. I live in Maine so it is this time of year that those temps begin to dip. My current temp limit is 32 degrees and that means a good pair of wind/cold blocking running tights and a couple of layers on top with a fleece headband and gloves (that come off mid-run because my hands get hot). I remember when I was younger (and dumb?) when my temp cutoff was 15 degrees. (What? I know -silly) Also I've been running for 30+ years and have only fallen down twice and one of those was from a misplaced step on some ice and the other was from a fat little beagle that wanted to say hello and got tangled up in my legs somehow.
Cincinnati - I love the cold. I hate heat & humidity. I have an old article from Runner’s world that has been very helpful for how to layer in what temperature. I tried the treadmill at my gym last week just to see what it was like and would have fallen if I had not held on tight. I need a lot of practice in that. The coldest I have run in what my first winter of serious running - 9 degrees. With layering it was not a big deal. I noticed this morning at 29 (it was 56 yesterday) I ran a little faster. So it helps my times as well. 😀
I HATE HATE HATE the cold. Having said that, living in Connecticut I can't avoid it. Since I hate the treadmill as much as the cold, I layer up like the little kid in A Christmas Story and just brave the elements. But if it's storming out or too bitter I won't go out. My runs are usually shorter but I'd rather do something than nothing.
I’m running CanyonX Half marathon in the Navajo Nation this weekend (northern Arizona). Temps expected to be low 30s. I’m scared but committed - anything below 60 degrees for me is cold! I’ll be wearing at least three layers and cover everything - head, hands, neck. Check on me tomorrow night!
I love running outside when it's cold. I wear long tights and a long sleeve performance shirt. I'm a sweater, so after the first mile I'm already producing a fair amount of heat and moisture. I also wear gloves on longer runs along with of course a performance "stocking" type hat. Same shoes as usual as my route is on pavement and side walk. Oh and last thing, I really like the Darn Tough brand of performance wool socks. (Note: please excuse the overuse of the word performance. It's probably a subconscious way of trying to increase perceived personal performance. I'm in no way a high performer out there on the course. ;-) )
I actually prefer running in the cold to running in the heat. Less traffic on the running paths, beautiful scenery if there's snow. Easier to layer up than strip down. Lol
I see my hometown on this picture - I live in the Cincinnati suburbs. On October 1 in Cincinnati, it was 94. Last night, it dropped to the upper 20's. A transition like that is hard, but it is what it is. I do 100% of my runs outside, rain, snow, shine, doesn't matter. I ran in the rain for a couple of hours last Saturday, and I will run in the cold tomorrow. When I run at Indianapolis Monumental next weekend, it will be cold. Cold does bother me more than a lot of people, but I'm still hoping I can run in shorts next week. I'll do it tomorrow morning to see if I can handle it. Running in tough conditions is truly an adaptation. I have found that it takes work to adapt, and it is my responsibility to myself to give it everything I've got.
Same here in Raleigh! Yesterday it was 77 degrees and this morning it was 40!.. Tomorrow I have 11 miles to do in 35 degrees.. Yikes! Definitely not acclimated to that yet, but layers help and wearing a hat, gloves and something around my neck. Also making sure you stay hydrated. You can get dehydrated just as easily in the cold, as in the heat. Stay Warm!
I run outside as much as possible my current threshold is a far amount below zero windchill. It makes it difficult at time here in Michigan. I have gear for my hands, and head. I also do layers with cold gear tights when the temperature gets close to freezing. I find it boring and difficult to visit spending time on the treadmill. I am a big proponent of group runs.
I live in Central Texas and hate the cold. We have about 20 hoof days of cold winter. I have learned to layer and wear gloves. Might start with it being cold, then gets to warm. I have learn to stash my clothes along the way. Come back and get it.
I'm in Wisconsin and we got our first snow this week and it's much colder as well. I use layers and use a windbreaker type jacket that I can unzip as I warm up. I also have a muff that I wear around my neck to keep my core warm. Good mittens and a stocking cap and I'm ready to run!
I live in NE so weather is very unpredictable. I prefer cooler temps to hot humid as long as it is above 20 with little or no wind I will run. I don’t run in heavy rain or when it snows more for visibility and traction reasons. I’m supposed to run a local half Sunday but my back went into spasm this am!
I only use my treadmill if it’s too dangerous outside to run, hate the cold weather but remind my self that I am stronger than the weather , ran a short shake out run today and tomorrow will run in a 25 k trail race near where I live in Md , good running to everyone
For races I go to the thrift store and buy cheap outer layers and toss them to the side most races collect and donate these items. For all other runs I dress to where I am comfortable standing outside for a several minutes with out shivering and I just take off the first mile is usually cold, but after that it’s all good, secret weapon though is a beanie and a neck warmer. I could probably run naked in the cold with just those and survive!
I go a bit shorter, wear an extra pair of tights, cycling gloves, and I made a balaklava from an old pair of tights!!! I pull it up over my nose and adjust as I warm up! No problem!
Ragnar next week. training for rock & roll NOLA full, i throw on some tights and maybe a long sleeve. if its above freezing shorts and gloves. Plenty of butt ugly throw away race shirts. Layers work.
I live in So. California and our temperature has also dropped into the 30s. I use layers, gloves and hats. If necessary, a pair of silk long johns to assist.
I actually enjoy running in cold weather. It is often uncomfortable to begin a run during cold weather. However, once I am warmed up, I enjoy the frigid temperatures. I think the key is to perform an intense workout while the temperatures are chilly. That way, the body will warm up naturally. I always feel great after overcoming the cold.
I run through the Wyoming winter. I check the temperature every morning before I run (in the dark). The windchill can be brutal. A have a scarf over my mouth and nose when it’s below 20 and a warm hat and headlamps. I dress in layers, a wind breaking zipper jacket and and reflective long sleeve shirt and wind breaking pants. I wear thin running socks under wool socks if it’s less than maybe 15 or 20. When it’s really cold I only run locally around the neighborhood in case of emergency I can ring a doorbell. I’ve had my phone not work in that kind of cold. :)
Living in Minnesota I have to deal with the ridiculously cold temps in the winter. If it's below zero I hit the dreadmill. I always over dress because I hate being cold (funny, since I live in MN). I've been known to wear 4 top layers, a hat and mittens. Yep, after the first 3/4 mile I'm roasting! I'd rather be sweating up a storm then shivering the whole time. Tomorrow is the Icebox 480 and it's supposed to be mid 30's (not too cold) but windy. I'm ok with the cold but always struggle with the wind! I'll wear 1 long sleeve, running tights, gloves, headband and hydration vest. After the first 7 mile lap I will most likely ditch the gloves and headband.
Hello from Canada! Love the cold, when you are moving np, a light vest and gloves are a must. Light Tube scarf, hat. Plan your route so that you avoid poorly maintained snow removal areas. Plan to be really cold after you finish running. Warmth must await a finished run.
Northern Vermont- I run outdoors year round. I merely dress appropriately. +32 or -32, it doesn't really matter. Just have to get it done! Of course, ice is a different matter. :)
I'm on the treadmill often in the winter months. Below 40 sends me inside, but so does darkness of night. I live rural and will not run in the dark. So shorter days, combined with cold, snow and treacherous hills, keep me on the treadmill. I admire the ones who are braver than me!
I prefer to run outside but during the winter, my weekly miles are done on the RAT MoBILE! I run before work so the option at 5am in the winter has to be indoors. I have enough trouble not tripping in daylight and summer so to add darkness and ice, well.......
I do take it outside on the weekends! As others have said, layers, layers, layers!
I need to figure out a trick to keep my glasses from fogging in the cold while wearing a face bandanna. I can adjust to cold ( sort of 😊), but the continuous defogging slows me down. Open to any suggestions.
My issue in Seattle for winter running is the rain rather than super cold weather. Rain jackets hats and gloves keep me somewhat dry. Unfortunately feet do get wet. It’s the one season we have to get through. If is just a drizzle or light rain. I actually live running in those cool days
i run year round no matter what and i live in maryland. i'm still in search of the perfect gloves -- my hands freeze no matter what --so on super cold days i use hand warmers. usually i get warm after the first mile. the pits is when i am finished running. i usually go straight to work so can't shower and i am cold to the bone! i chug hot tea and keep a blanket on my lap until my temp goes back to normal but it takes forever.
Well, living in Florida we do not ever have the cold weather problem. I LOVE going to visit my family in Atlanta in the winter and going for a run. I just dress in layers and I'm fine in 30 degrees once I get running. I run on hot though no matter what. My issue is I sweat so much regardless. Especially my head! Sweat and freezing temps maybe don't mix? I'm running a half in zion in February so I'll have to do some research especially since I don't have the temps in FL to do much of trail runs.
I’m in Wisconsin, and I don’t run outside when windchills are below zero. That said, it’s not usually the cold that keeps me inside, but the snow and ice. I have the gear (YakTrax, screw shoes, and trail shoes) but I live in a rural area where they often don’t plow, and they never put down salt. Sometimes it’s just not safe - if I’m not sliding, the cars are. I don’t hate the treadmill.
Here in Charlotte it was in the upper 30s when I started running this morning. Ran for almost 3.5 hours. Unless it is way below freezing, I will do everything I can to stay off of a treadmill.
I live in Maine and run thru the winter. I wear layers and before I go out, I crank the heat until I'm so hot I have to get out! LOL
I mostly run outside during the winter. If it gets down below zero that will usually send me indoors to the treadmill. When running outside I dress in layers and the colder it is the more layers I wear. I also have an assortment of buffs, hats, and a nice balaclava that I use depending how cold it is. Last winter I purchased a pair of Saucony Perrigrine Ice running shoes and they have been great for running in the snow and ice. I'm fond of saying there is no bad weather just bad outfits.
Hershey PA- I actually love running in the cold and find my pace definitely improves. I’ll run in temps down to the high teens. A run on a cold sunny winter day is just so beautiful and inspiring. Layers for sure. Hat and gloves a must. Now that I said all that, today I’m worried about running in the sudden temperature drop! The whine on me will rear it’s head on occasion but I’ll do it and then wonder why I was worried! Running the Gettysburg Half Marathon this Sunday. A large portion of it is right through the battlefields. Talk about sad and inspiring.
I’ve been running for just a few months but we get both extremes in the upper Midwest. Heat is avoidable but the impending cold has been fun to maneuver. I have been out in as low as 15 this “autumn” already. Full length leggings, compression knee highs, reg. socks, tank, L/S seamless zip up, lightweight fleece zip up, gloves and a lightweight hat has gotten me this far. It’s a balancing act because if you are overdressed you sweat and then freeze. I journal my runs every day and note temp, wind and detailed outfits. Then I can refer back.
Okk, I’m so grateful for this question and the feedback. I’m the worst at the cold weather. Last year around this time or the fall I trained for a had marathon, I’m down for another I can’t seem to endure this weather. Last year though I had a good friend to encourage me but she moved. So I’m
Left to my own devices not working well at all. I know about layering up, but to get started I’m blocked. I look forward to reading to help me! You guys rock!! Thank you
Wool layers work really well - keep you warm when you need it and not too hot. I also put shea butter on my face if it's really windy and in the 20's or below - helps to prevent chapping if your eyes stream as much as mine do. Seat warmers for the drive home are heaven!
I just wear thermals under my shorts, a long sleeve running shirt, and a hat. I have found no matter how cold it is once I get a couple miles into the race it no longer matters. Yes, I have a race this weekend.
I tend to overheat in a race so when cold, rainy on day of race, I go to a local thrift store and purchase cheap old jackets, gloves ( I cut fingers out) that you can take off in a race, if needed. These items are collected throughout the end of race and provided for the needy. Good luck!
Maybe I’m a weirdo, but I don’t really hate the treadmill. I’ll download a movie Or my shows and use my headphones To watch/listen. Even when cold weather (or too hot — Vegas) shows up, I’m still motivated to run because I want to catch up on my show.
I've found that as my age rises so does my temperature threshold for running outside. I live in Maine so it is this time of year that those temps begin to dip. My current temp limit is 32 degrees and that means a good pair of wind/cold blocking running tights and a couple of layers on top with a fleece headband and gloves (that come off mid-run because my hands get hot). I remember when I was younger (and dumb?) when my temp cutoff was 15 degrees. (What? I know -silly) Also I've been running for 30+ years and have only fallen down twice and one of those was from a misplaced step on some ice and the other was from a fat little beagle that wanted to say hello and got tangled up in my legs somehow.
Happy Winter Running Everyone!
Cincinnati - I love the cold. I hate heat & humidity. I have an old article from Runner’s world that has been very helpful for how to layer in what temperature. I tried the treadmill at my gym last week just to see what it was like and would have fallen if I had not held on tight. I need a lot of practice in that. The coldest I have run in what my first winter of serious running - 9 degrees. With layering it was not a big deal. I noticed this morning at 29 (it was 56 yesterday) I ran a little faster. So it helps my times as well. 😀
I HATE HATE HATE the cold. Having said that, living in Connecticut I can't avoid it. Since I hate the treadmill as much as the cold, I layer up like the little kid in A Christmas Story and just brave the elements. But if it's storming out or too bitter I won't go out. My runs are usually shorter but I'd rather do something than nothing.
Treadmill...hate the cold.
Layers and running. Always dress like it's 20 degrees warmer than it is. If you begin your run comfortable, you have too many layers. ;)
I’m running CanyonX Half marathon in the Navajo Nation this weekend (northern Arizona). Temps expected to be low 30s. I’m scared but committed - anything below 60 degrees for me is cold! I’ll be wearing at least three layers and cover everything - head, hands, neck. Check on me tomorrow night!
I love running outside when it's cold. I wear long tights and a long sleeve performance shirt. I'm a sweater, so after the first mile I'm already producing a fair amount of heat and moisture. I also wear gloves on longer runs along with of course a performance "stocking" type hat. Same shoes as usual as my route is on pavement and side walk. Oh and last thing, I really like the Darn Tough brand of performance wool socks. (Note: please excuse the overuse of the word performance. It's probably a subconscious way of trying to increase perceived personal performance. I'm in no way a high performer out there on the course. ;-) )
I actually prefer running in the cold to running in the heat. Less traffic on the running paths, beautiful scenery if there's snow. Easier to layer up than strip down. Lol
I see my hometown on this picture - I live in the Cincinnati suburbs. On October 1 in Cincinnati, it was 94. Last night, it dropped to the upper 20's. A transition like that is hard, but it is what it is. I do 100% of my runs outside, rain, snow, shine, doesn't matter. I ran in the rain for a couple of hours last Saturday, and I will run in the cold tomorrow. When I run at Indianapolis Monumental next weekend, it will be cold. Cold does bother me more than a lot of people, but I'm still hoping I can run in shorts next week. I'll do it tomorrow morning to see if I can handle it. Running in tough conditions is truly an adaptation. I have found that it takes work to adapt, and it is my responsibility to myself to give it everything I've got.
Same here in Raleigh! Yesterday it was 77 degrees and this morning it was 40!.. Tomorrow I have 11 miles to do in 35 degrees.. Yikes! Definitely not acclimated to that yet, but layers help and wearing a hat, gloves and something around my neck. Also making sure you stay hydrated. You can get dehydrated just as easily in the cold, as in the heat. Stay Warm!
I run outside as much as possible my current threshold is a far amount below zero windchill. It makes it difficult at time here in Michigan. I have gear for my hands, and head. I also do layers with cold gear tights when the temperature gets close to freezing. I find it boring and difficult to visit spending time on the treadmill. I am a big proponent of group runs.
I live in Central Texas and hate the cold. We have about 20 hoof days of cold winter. I have learned to layer and wear gloves. Might start with it being cold, then gets to warm. I have learn to stash my clothes along the way. Come back and get it.
I'm in Wisconsin and we got our first snow this week and it's much colder as well. I use layers and use a windbreaker type jacket that I can unzip as I warm up. I also have a muff that I wear around my neck to keep my core warm. Good mittens and a stocking cap and I'm ready to run!
I live in NE so weather is very unpredictable. I prefer cooler temps to hot humid as long as it is above 20 with little or no wind I will run. I don’t run in heavy rain or when it snows more for visibility and traction reasons. I’m supposed to run a local half Sunday but my back went into spasm this am!
I only use my treadmill if it’s too dangerous outside to run, hate the cold weather but remind my self that I am stronger than the weather , ran a short shake out run today and tomorrow will run in a 25 k trail race near where I live in Md , good running to everyone
The only winter conditions I avoid are driving snowstorms, or weather so cold it threatens frostbite. The rest can be handled with proper clothing.
For races I go to the thrift store and buy cheap outer layers and toss them to the side most races collect and donate these items. For all other runs I dress to where I am comfortable standing outside for a several minutes with out shivering and I just take off the first mile is usually cold, but after that it’s all good, secret weapon though is a beanie and a neck warmer. I could probably run naked in the cold with just those and survive!
I go a bit shorter, wear an extra pair of tights, cycling gloves, and I made a balaklava from an old pair of tights!!! I pull it up over my nose and adjust as I warm up! No problem!
Here on the west coast of Canada I might have layers up top but almost always colourful shorts
Ragnar next week. training for rock & roll NOLA full, i throw on some tights and maybe a long sleeve. if its above freezing shorts and gloves. Plenty of butt ugly throw away race shirts. Layers work.
I live in So. California and our temperature has also dropped into the 30s. I use layers, gloves and hats. If necessary, a pair of silk long johns to assist.
I actually enjoy running in cold weather. It is often uncomfortable to begin a run during cold weather. However, once I am warmed up, I enjoy the frigid temperatures. I think the key is to perform an intense workout while the temperatures are chilly. That way, the body will warm up naturally. I always feel great after overcoming the cold.
I run through the Wyoming winter. I check the temperature every morning before I run (in the dark). The windchill can be brutal. A have a scarf over my mouth and nose when it’s below 20 and a warm hat and headlamps. I dress in layers, a wind breaking zipper jacket and and reflective long sleeve shirt and wind breaking pants. I wear thin running socks under wool socks if it’s less than maybe 15 or 20. When it’s really cold I only run locally around the neighborhood in case of emergency I can ring a doorbell. I’ve had my phone not work in that kind of cold. :)
Running the Golden Gate Half in SF on Sunday 11/3/19. My favorite race in the world! Temps in the 50s and 60s and sunny. :)
We move to Tampa in October, and head back to Cape Cod in the summer. Solved.
Living in Minnesota I have to deal with the ridiculously cold temps in the winter. If it's below zero I hit the dreadmill. I always over dress because I hate being cold (funny, since I live in MN). I've been known to wear 4 top layers, a hat and mittens. Yep, after the first 3/4 mile I'm roasting! I'd rather be sweating up a storm then shivering the whole time. Tomorrow is the Icebox 480 and it's supposed to be mid 30's (not too cold) but windy. I'm ok with the cold but always struggle with the wind! I'll wear 1 long sleeve, running tights, gloves, headband and hydration vest. After the first 7 mile lap I will most likely ditch the gloves and headband.
Hello from Canada! Love the cold, when you are moving np, a light vest and gloves are a must. Light Tube scarf, hat. Plan your route so that you avoid poorly maintained snow removal areas. Plan to be really cold after you finish running. Warmth must await a finished run.
Northern Vermont- I run outdoors year round. I merely dress appropriately. +32 or -32, it doesn't really matter. Just have to get it done! Of course, ice is a different matter. :)
Keep training in the snow.
I'm on the treadmill often in the winter months. Below 40 sends me inside, but so does darkness of night. I live rural and will not run in the dark. So shorter days, combined with cold, snow and treacherous hills, keep me on the treadmill. I admire the ones who are braver than me!
I prefer to run outside but during the winter, my weekly miles are done on the RAT MoBILE! I run before work so the option at 5am in the winter has to be indoors. I have enough trouble not tripping in daylight and summer so to add darkness and ice, well.......
I do take it outside on the weekends! As others have said, layers, layers, layers!
I need to figure out a trick to keep my glasses from fogging in the cold while wearing a face bandanna. I can adjust to cold ( sort of 😊), but the continuous defogging slows me down. Open to any suggestions.
My issue in Seattle for winter running is the rain rather than super cold weather. Rain jackets hats and gloves keep me somewhat dry. Unfortunately feet do get wet. It’s the one season we have to get through. If is just a drizzle or light rain. I actually live running in those cool days
i run year round no matter what and i live in maryland. i'm still in search of the perfect gloves -- my hands freeze no matter what --so on super cold days i use hand warmers. usually i get warm after the first mile. the pits is when i am finished running. i usually go straight to work so can't shower and i am cold to the bone! i chug hot tea and keep a blanket on my lap until my temp goes back to normal but it takes forever.
Well, living in Florida we do not ever have the cold weather problem. I LOVE going to visit my family in Atlanta in the winter and going for a run. I just dress in layers and I'm fine in 30 degrees once I get running. I run on hot though no matter what. My issue is I sweat so much regardless. Especially my head! Sweat and freezing temps maybe don't mix? I'm running a half in zion in February so I'll have to do some research especially since I don't have the temps in FL to do much of trail runs.
I’m in Wisconsin, and I don’t run outside when windchills are below zero. That said, it’s not usually the cold that keeps me inside, but the snow and ice. I have the gear (YakTrax, screw shoes, and trail shoes) but I live in a rural area where they often don’t plow, and they never put down salt. Sometimes it’s just not safe - if I’m not sliding, the cars are. I don’t hate the treadmill.
I find running in the cold to be very refreshing. I don't have any specific strategies. The heat is harder to deal with.
Here in Charlotte it was in the upper 30s when I started running this morning. Ran for almost 3.5 hours. Unless it is way below freezing, I will do everything I can to stay off of a treadmill.
Wool running socks! Gloves, ear covers, neck cover, and layers. Portland, OR does get some snow on occasion.