One of the best times of the year to run is definitely the winter! Now, most people probably would think of this time of sleet and muscle pulling wonderland would be the best time to run indoors. But before you hit that treadmill, consider the possibilities of growth and challenge.
Winter is NOT my favorite time of year, but when it comes to running, I realize that it's the necessary evil to help give you the extra edge for the coming track season. One of the best training tools you can get during the winter is the most common. SNOW! Snow gives the ultimate resistance training for a runner who can stand the cold. The slippery roads, the usual wind that allows the wonderful frozen water to attack our faces and lungs, and the accumulation on the bottoms of our already wet feet turn boys into men. The wind that usually comes with Midwestern and Northeastern winters is also a great training partner. My advice for that is to begin your run into the direction of the wind to give you the resistance when you are still fresh and can handle it. Then when your turn around, you will get the wonderful feeling of easy running with the wind behind your back. It also warms you up.
Make sure that you BUNDLE UP during this time. I usually wear my Nike skull-cap, running tights, and a lighter jacket. Depending on if your hands get cold too it's always a good idea to keep gloves in your pockets. The main thing is to do what you need to for the winter is to stay warm and safe during your runs. If you can't stand the cold, don't give up. Run inside on a treadmill, but also try to take a walk outside.
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