3 Tips: Running in the Cold

2-Minute Read

Winter running is a battle. It’s cold, it’s dark, and your warm bed is calling. But if we can shift our mindset and prepare with some practical strategies, running in the cold can not only become easier, but even enjoyable.

Mindset: Remove the Friction

The biggest challenge to running in cold weather isn’t the weather itself—it’s the friction in getting out the door. 

Here are our very best tips:

1. The Hardest Part

To run in the cold, we need to manage the hardest part of any run... and the hardest part of any run is the moment BEFORE any actual running has been done, ironically.

It's the anticipation. It's the moment right before actually getting out the door. Once you're out, everything is easier. And it's powerful to understand that. You're not afraid of the run. You're not. You know that once you start, everything is fine. So all you need to do, is quiet the noise in your head. Just start running. And 30 seconds later, you're good to go. You’ve done this before, and you’ll do it again.

2. Feel Like a Badass

Winter running is a time to go all out. It is a challenge, but nothing makes runners feel like more of a badass than getting out the door and roughing it through the snow. This challenge... makes us happy. Do the hard thing now, be rewarded later. It's how the brain works, and how it always will work. So let's lean into it.

When you're out running in the snow, look around. Are there more people out running now then in summer? Nope. But you're one of the few that GOES HARD.

3. Make It Part of Your Routine

The key to running in the cold, or any challenging situation, is to make it part of your regular routine. Don’t overthink it. Don’t wait for the perfect moment or perfect conditions. Just show up. You’ve set this habit in motion. Just like brushing your teeth or making a cup of coffee, getting your run done is part of your daily life.

By creating a routine you love, the decision to run becomes automatic. The more you do it, the less you’ll have to rely on motivation.

Practical Tips: Prepare for Comfort in the Cold

With the right prep, the cold doesn’t have to be a deterrent. The key is to make the transition from warmth to the outside world as easy as possible. Here are some practical strategies to keep you moving despite the chill:

1. Dynamic Warm-Up Indoors

The second you step outside, your body starts reacting to the cold. To prevent feeling stiff, do your dynamic warm-up indoors first. This helps raise your body temperature before the cold can sap your energy. A few minutes of leg swings, arm circles, and hip openers will get your blood flowing, so when you step outside, you're ready to run right away, generating body heat without the initial shock of the cold.

2. Windproof is Key

One of the biggest mistakes runners make in cold weather is prioritizing warmth over wind resistance. The wind can slice through even the warmest clothing, stripping away body heat. Windproof jackets or layers are a game changer. They protect you from wind chill and allow your insulation to work more effectively. Layer your clothing with a breathable base layer, followed by a windproof outer shell. This will keep you warm without overheating and give you the protection you need to keep moving.

3. Dress in Layers

Dress in layers that you can adjust as needed. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin. Then, add an insulating layer (fleece or a thicker top) and finish with a windproof jacket. A hat is essential to keep your head warm, and gloves can make a huge difference when temperatures drop. As you warm up, you can remove the outer layer if needed, but your base layers should stay dry to prevent cooling down quickly.

4. Have a Quick Post-Run Plan

Motivation to run in the cold can sometimes be about what happens afterward. If you have a quick post-run routine that you enjoy—whether it’s a hot shower, a warm drink, or simply some quiet time—it can be the incentive you need to get out the door. Knowing there’s something comforting waiting for you can make the effort of running in the cold feel worth it.

Wrap It Up

Ultimately, winter running is about adjusting your mindset and being strategic in how you prepare. Just have fun with it, and the cold will no longer feel like an obstacle. It will become a normal part of your training, and you'll come to embrace the challenge as part of your growth.

And with this mindset, we can build a routine we love, and train consistently. Because with consistency, we build passion.