On the topic of running in snow and slush

BearJuden

Does running in snow or slush bun more, between the additional focus you have to give it and the slight backwards movement when you move your foot and etc etc? I know the cold itself is negligible, but I can't seem to find a good answer for the physics of snow running. I know I always FEEL more tired...but I dunno' the numbers.

meshashesha2012

working out in the cold is supposed to burn more calories but i dont think it's supposed to be a major difference in terms of "yay i can eat an extra sammich" . do you have an HRM? if so maybe you can compare differences in heart rate

Azdak

Intensity is intensity. To burn more calories you have to work harder--you can't just do the same intensity and somehow burn more calories.

If indeed the snow and slush is adding to the workload of the exercise, and you are working at your normal exertion level, then something has to give. You either will have to run slower to compensate, or, if you are maintaining the same speed and working harder, you will likely have to decrease duration. In either case, the best case scenario is that total workout calories will be the same.

The extra fatigue is more due to the different muscle work required to negotiate the different terrain.

nirvi9

I feel the same way from running in the snow/slush. From what I've read, it's because running in the snow engages your muscles differently than running normally does, in particular I believe it makes more use of your stabilizing muscles.

I find the same thing if I ever run trails, the uneven/soft ground is harder on my legs than just road running.

Mrscanmore

I think it is harder work running through the snow. Your body is continually stabilizing, and you have to lift your foot up a bit more in the snow, but you do run slower! So, I count it the same as summer running, knowing that it is a bit harder work, but slower going.