Running in the winter/snow?

kriskel
kriskel Posts: 29 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Hey All, I live in Atlantic Canada and we get quite a bit of snow so I was wondering if any of you have any tips for running in the winter/snow? I really don't want to stop running for the winter. I don't have a treadmill and the closest gym to me is a 45 min drive.

Replies

  • cwolfman13
    cwolfman13 Posts: 41,865 Member
    I just wear my winter running gear. Shoes can be an issue if there's actual snow you're running through, but I usually run on cleared paths...but we also don't get a ton of snow in my neck of the woods.
  • southerndream24
    southerndream24 Posts: 303 Member
    Stock up on cold gear and a really good winter running jacket (mine really helps with the wind when I'm running on the river). I try to stick to cleared sidewalks or run in the street when we have snow. I try to run slower as well.
  • kriskel
    kriskel Posts: 29 Member
    Thanks for the replies! I guess I'll have to get a good running winter jacket. Don't you worry you'll fall on black ice?
  • uscooleys
    uscooleys Posts: 34 Member
    One of my fave times to run is when a light snow is falling! Warm running gear that is breathable and wool running socks are a must for me. I try to stay on the cleared running paths as well (luckily here they plow the bike path areas before the street it seems). I do wear gaiters to help with the dampness as well. I have tried wearing YakTraks when running to deal with traction but find that they affect my stride so I tend to just hope I don't slip and fall.

    But I will admit - when it is bone chiling cold, I wimp out and hit my treadmill.

    Good luck!
  • LosinItAll2012
    LosinItAll2012 Posts: 238 Member
    I have the same fear! I live in Newfoundland..and I would love to run outside in winter, but am always too afraid to slip and fall.
  • southerndream24
    southerndream24 Posts: 303 Member
    Thanks for the replies! I guess I'll have to get a good running winter jacket. Don't you worry you'll fall on black ice?

    Nope, I live in Manhattan. They're pretty good at clearing the roads. If the roads aren't clear they'll tell you to stay off of them.
  • nathalier71
    nathalier71 Posts: 570 Member
    I have the same fear! I live in Newfoundland..and I would love to run outside in winter, but am always too afraid to slip and fall.
    I'm in Ottawa and worry about the same thing - ice and snow - we should move to Bora Bora where it's nice and hot - no snow =)
  • rduhlir
    rduhlir Posts: 3,550 Member
    Thanks for the replies! I guess I'll have to get a good running winter jacket. Don't you worry you'll fall on black ice?

    http://www.runnersworld.com/other-gear/review-ice-cleats
  • jacksonpt
    jacksonpt Posts: 10,413 Member
    I just wear my winter running gear. Shoes can be an issue if there's actual snow you're running through, but I usually run on cleared paths...but we also don't get a ton of snow in my neck of the woods.

    Same. I wear different shoes in the winter if/when conditions warrant it, but otherwise it's the same as running during the summer, just with more clothes on.

    I'm guessing you get more snow than I do, so something like Microspikes might be a good option for you. Or maybe some dedicated winter running shoes.

    Do they make studded shoes? I'm sure someone does...
  • scorpio516
    scorpio516 Posts: 955 Member
    I live in New England. My deep winter clothes consist of - normal shoes, normal socks, tights, long sleeve shirt, running jacket, gloves and hat.

    I think the jacket I have is a Brooks Essential jacket, they say it's for 40-65F. I've worn it down to 20F without problems.

    You probably won't slip on snow. You won't slip on clear paving. You just have to pay attention to where you put your feet. In the past 20 years, I don't think I've ever slipped and fell running. Walking, skating, or nordic skiing, that's a different story :D
  • dalguard
    dalguard Posts: 36
    They make these things called Yak Tracks for running on ice and they make running snow shoes for running on snow but both are overkill if you're running on mostly clear pavement. Just watch your footing and if you fall, it's usually an embarassing but not harmful slip 'n' slide.
  • dvonic
    dvonic Posts: 15 Member
    What would be the best running shoes for the winter/rain time? :D
  • SassyCalyGirl
    SassyCalyGirl Posts: 1,932 Member
    Try the following tips to run safely and avoid falling on ice and snow this Winter.

    Wear trail shoes or a traction device like Yak Trax. They will give you better traction and stability in the snow.  Note: Avoid wearing the Yak Trax indoors or roads without snow.  Keep them in your pocket until you hit the snow.
    Choose fresh snow over ice or packed snow.  You will get better traction on fresh snow and reduce the chance for slipping.  Watch out for snow-covered cracks and holes in the road. 
    Shorten your running stride and keep your feet lower to the ground. You
    will run more efficiently and reduce the risk of slipping, falling or
    straining muscles.
    On challenging weather days, throw your planned pace out the window and slow down.
    It is better to focus on getting in a solid run safely than to hurry pace and risk getting hurt.  It's also okay
    to cut your mileage short in snowy conditions. You'll be working a
    lot harder than your normal runs and the intensity will be much higher.
    You may be sore in muscles you didn't even know you have.  Running in snow and ice requires your stabilizing
    muscles on the inner and outer legs to work twice as hard as they work to keep you upright.
    Focus on full body flexibility exercises and ease
    your way into snow running.  Alternate an outdoor snow run with an indoor treadmill run for a few weeks until your body adapts to the  greater demands.
    When in doubt, walk through an icy stretch. It beats getting hurt slipping on ice.  You can also slow down and use a gliding skating step as well. 
    Relax and focus on the road ahead. Part of the tranquility of running in the snow is that it requires you to be in the moment and focus on every step you take.
    Happy Trails
  • JingleMuffin
    JingleMuffin Posts: 543 Member
    check out Yak Trax

    they are awesome for running on packed snow/ ice combos
  • TammyW18
    TammyW18 Posts: 244 Member
    Bump
  • rmdaly
    rmdaly Posts: 250 Member
    I sweat a lot so in the winter, I have to wear a hat. Even then, the hair coming out from under will freeze and I've even had my eyebrows frost up.

    Be sure to drink when you run in the winter. Its easy to not think about drinking in the cold. However, I have found that if I get dehydrated, I will get a chill that just won't go away even after a good hot shower.
  • kriskel
    kriskel Posts: 29 Member
    thanks! I'll definitely looks into some ice cleats/yak trax!!
  • jeepyj93
    jeepyj93 Posts: 392 Member
    I ran all winter last year and I live in the Canadian Rockies, I had a fear of falling after falling and breaking both my elbows in the last 5 years. I wore a good trail runner and then I bought at the running store Ice Grippers and they worked great. They just slipped on the shoe and they worked better than Yak Traks because they weren't slippery if you came to dry pavement.
    I just layer up short Tshirt with long Tech shirt over, then light running jacket. Running spandex shorts with long tights over. Smart wool socks I like Point 6 best never cold feet until the day I went out without them and I realized how good they were. Neck sleeve to keep the snow out and to be able to pull up over my chin if needed, head band to cover my ears and a running cap, I liked that better than a tougue if it was snowing, thin pair of gloves with mitts over top.
    I ran when it was -20C and was never cold.
    This year I have a bad foot injury so will be taking it easy. I love winter running.

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