Winter...a tricky test of a runner's tolerance

Ugh. I'm just not a fan of Winter.

Granted, I can tolerate it, and I do try to get most of my runs done outside.

I also try to make it  outside everyday for a walk if the conditions aren't too frigid. But Winter definitely is my least-favorite season because it's so tricky and temperamental, especially in terms of running.

First of all, the temps (and weather conditions) are ever-changing. It's usually gonna be cold, at least that's one constant, but exactly how uncomfortable that cold will feel is always a guessing game. Even when the air temps are frigid, they won't feel too bad once you get moving. If it's a lucky rare day with no wind, that's a total jackpot! Then there are the days when the temps plummet below the freezing range...even adding an extra layer won't do the trick if the wind is having a blowing tantrum.

Did I say wind? Oh yes, the wind! Let me tell you... in the Midwest, the wind can be the main deal-breaker. In the summer, a gentle breeze is often welcome, but not so in the winter. I still haven't figured out if I prefer a constant wind or intermittent gusts. Truth be told, I'd prefer no wind (which does happen on occasion, but not too often). Most of us have been advised to run into the wind for the first part of a run, then you'll have the wind at your back for the remainder (assuming you have a turn-around on your route). Unfortunately, it's not always possible to avoid the wind, no matter which direction you're facing when you head out or come back.

Then there's the terrain underfoot. Snow can be slick, and often times there's ice hidden underneath. The snow usually gets plowed into thick piles along the street. Even if those piles aren't too slippery to navigate, your feet will still get cold running through them. Let's not forget about the cars we have to share the road with; often times those cars have just as much difficulty negotiating the slick surfaces as we do. If you care to test your luck on a trail, you won't have to worry as much about traffic. Those trails, though, will probably be covered in snow, which can also hide tree roots, divots and brush, making it difficult to know just how deep said snow is or how massive the hidden objects are. If there's been some melting and refreezing, you can bet you'll have anything but a smooth surface awaiting you and your ankles, especially if there's been any cross country skiers or snowmobiles sharing the path.

I mentioned the inconsistent weather and changing temps. For myself, it seems like I'm in a constant flux of (1) acclimating to (current) cold conditions, (2) enjoying a brief  (but welcome) warm-up, then (3) having to re-acclimate all over again. Throw in some wind (because it's usually a factor, by default), and it really is a guessing game in terms of layering up before heading out. What I choose to wear is not only contingent on the actual temps, but also the windchill, how far of a distance is on the plan, as well as which route will be utilized (Out in the open? On the streets, sheltered from some of the wind?). Just when I think I've gotten the metrics nailed, I'm often times humbled. And cold. 

Lastly, no matter how many Winter Running Layering charts one can peruse, there really are no perfect universal answers. Just like we all run at a different pace, most of us will have a unique level of comfort in terms of coldness and warmth. I'm usually more cold than warm, no matter how fast or far I'm running, so I prefer to err on the side of dressing too warm (as opposed to too cold). Either way, I know I'm gonna sweat so I'd rather have an extra layer to combat some of the cold air and/or wind.

So, yeah. There are many factors that are never constant. Even with 15 years of winter running under my (fuel) belt, it's still a game of trial and error. I'm much better at it nowadays, thankfully, but I still feel like a work-in-progress when there's a sudden shift in temps. The past couple of winters have been brutally cold, and this year it's been pretty mild...so it's been another season of re-learning.

Let me add, though, that winter running isn't all bad.

It is quite tranquil being out there in the crisp air, hearing the snow crunch underfoot and seeing the glistening snow on a sunny day. Also, all of those early morning runs I do? Sometimes, if there's a clear sky, the snow is so bright (from reflecting the moonlight and stars) that it's almost as bright as day...even with no hint of sunshine happening for a couple hours.

That said, just because I can tolerate the cold of winter doesn't mean I have to love it. I still prefer the heat of summer. Hands down, without any argument, my body embraces shorts-and-tank-tops weather.

So, there you have it, my friends. A few reasons why Winter is not my favorite time of year, and how it tests my patience as a runner.

A couple related posts:
Winter Running: We Got This
Winter Running - Tips, Tricks & Safety

How about you? How do you feel about Winter...love it? hate it? love to hate it? or simply tolerate it? If you had to pick one season as your favorite, which would you choose?

I'm linking this with Kim and Zenaida for the Tuesday Topics Link-Up

I'm also linking with Debbie,  Rachel, Deborah, Lisa, Smitha and Jenn for the Runners' Roundup

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