While we were fortunate to have had warm temperatures stay with us until November, all good things must come to an end. For many, the onslaught of winter means going outside as least often as possible; hibernating under at least two blankets with warm, fuzzy socks to boot becomes second nature.
When you’re as cozy as an Eskimo, exercise is probably the last thing on your mind — until New Years and the “get fit” bandwagon comes to town. Before your metabolism has the chance to plummet in a spiral of holiday comfort food and couch surfing, rev it up by giving outdoor running a try. With no fancy equipment or gym needed, it is perhaps the cheapest way to get in shape (especially if you’re trying to save up for holiday gifts).
Get a good pair of running shoes
No, we’re not talking snowshoes, although snowshoeing is another winter activity that burns hundreds of calories. Buy a pair that is comfortable, high quality and has good traction on the soles. Give them a test run (literally) in the store to make sure they suit you well.
Stay hydrated
Make sure you’re drinking enough fluids, especially before and after a run. Your muscles will be happy, you’ll have more energy (read: feel less sluggish), and — bonus benefit — your skin will be way less dry and flaky.
Layer, layer, layer
No one enjoys running looking like a marshmallow in a puff coat, and even if they did, they would probably become overheated in a short amount of time. For optimal range of motion (and warmth), aim for multiple thinner items as opposed to thicker ones, like long-sleeved shirts, long pants (ideally ones that are more form-fitting than baggy) and long socks.
Warm up
No football player goes directly from the locker room onto the field without warming up first. The same applies to running, especially running outdoors. If you don’t stretch and walk for the first few minutes, you’re setting yourself up for injury and a subpar workout.
Start out slow
This goes both ways in terms of environment and speed. First of all, never run on ice (duh). You could run on top of snow but that could result in cold, wet feet, so pick a surface that’s well cleared, such as the side of the road. As far as speed goes, start with a realistic distance or time that you can achieve. My favorite strategy is to make it a game using visual markers like driveways or lampposts.
To reference the age-old, yet true saying: it's a marathon, not a sprint.
Emily McIntyre is a senior studying journalism with a focus in news and information at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. What is your favorite workout tip? Let her know by emailing her at em564912@ohio.edu.
