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Thats why the chill of an outdoor run hits us so hard, he says.
Getty/Jordan Siemens
(Yes, there are some, we promise!)
Warm up your muscles before you go outside.
Bonus: Itll also help you reduce your risk of injuries like strains and pulls, OConnell says.
To do it, try adynamic warm-upinside before you get going.
Craighead recommends five or six different exercises for 30 seconds eachthink lunges, air squats, and donkey kicks.
Add a running skirt or pair of shorts on top of your bottoms.
The surprising go-to piece of gear that one Alaskan runner swears by?
Plus, it does so without the bulk of layering on two pairs of pants.
Quinns favorites are from Swedish companySkhoop.
Wear a jacket thats windproof in front and breathable in back.
This combo is essential so you have protection from biting cold but wont overheat, Quinn says.
Its tough to give a one-temperature-fits-all guide for winter-running clothing.
Experiment and see what works for you.
Opt for smaller running loops.
Instead of a long out-and-back, try making smaller loops around your house or car instead.
And you probably do this alreadybut if youre running by yourself, take your phone.
Keep it tucked in an inner layer so it stays warm enough to function.
Make a standing date with a running buddyand decide on a temperature cutoff.
Picking a hard cutoff temperature eliminates last-minute decision-makingyoull know its happening unless the number dips below that point.
Cover your exposed skin with fabric or balm.
Protect that inch under your tights by choosing longer running socks or even hiking socks.
Youll feel more comfortable on the runand less red and raw afterward.
7. ensure youre still hydrating.
Without visual cues like dripping sweat, you dont always realize youre thirsty in cold temperatures.
Keep in mind though that sipping ice-cold beverages when its cold outside can further decrease your core temperature.
(Save the hot beverage as a warm-up tactic for after your runsee below!)
For a cheap fix, cover them with duct tape to keep out the elements, Quinn recommends.
I think of trail shoes like winter tires, OConnell says.
Icebug also makes avarietyof studded shoes that prevent you from slipping on ice and slush, she says.
Wear mittens and stick disposable hand warmers inside them.
Pick a raceor even a race-cationto keep you motivated.
Keep in mind that you really will warm up once you get going.
Whats more, the process really does get easier as the season wears on.
Our body, after repeated cold exposure, basically stops getting stressed out by it, Craighead says.
Your perception of how cold it is changes, he says.
Plan a post-run warm-up.
So play the preventive game to keep warm after.
So get indoors quickly and strip off any sweaty, wet layers.
Heat transfers to skin more quickly from water than from air, Craighead says.
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