Stay Fired Up for Fitness During The Winter

by Erika Delgado, Contributor

When the temperature drops, our drive to stay active can plummet too. During the winter, many of us like to keep the party inside where it’s warm while our fitness goals take a back seat. Furthermore, the reduced daylight hours and frigid seasonal temperatures deter us from venturing outside unless absolutely necessary.

But there’s no need to lose motivation just because of the chilly season. Here are a few ways to keep yourself motivated to continue running all winter.

SPLURGE ON SOME NEW GEAR

During my first winter as a runner, I dreaded outdoor workouts. I saw other runners blitzing through al fresco training like champs and I felt like a wuss. For me, the bitter temperatures were torture. That’s when I decided it was time to step up my game with some seasonal gear.

With a few new items, I found cold weather running could be fun and exciting! It’s okay to spoil yourself a little, especially if you are buying equipment that will help you to remain safe, stylish, and energized during your workouts. These are some of my favorites:

My luxuriously warm running top - It is imperative to stay warm and dry during your workouts, so I always opt for a good set of layers. My favorite top this season is the Under Armour ColdGear® Doubleknit Women’s Long Sleeve Shirt. It’s cozy, stylish, and durable.

My weatherproof shoes - Between long runs, speed workouts, and cross-training, our feet take a beating. That’s why it is vital to invest in proper footwear. In freezing temps, opt for shoes that will keep your tootsies toasty. Salomon offers a massive selection of shoes for various activities. I prefer the models that are constructed with GORE-TEX material, which is ideal for all-weather running.

My smart wearable - There is a wide variety of smartwatches on the market. These gadgets help runners to track distance, pace, heart rate, and calories. My pick is the Apple Watch with GPS + Cellular. It does more than simply track my fitness. I can listen to music, answer calls, reply to messages, and more. Wearing this device means I can leave my phone at home during a run. Plus, the colored wrist bands are super cute.

REGISTER FOR A RACE

Nothing motivates me more than signing up for an event. If I have a race scheduled, that means I have to train. Barring unforeseen circumstances, bailing on a race I have paid hard-earned money for is not an option. Use a race finder site like Running in the USA to discover domestic running events. Marathon Guide also has a great list of international marathons.

Once you register, choose a training plan to stay committed to a consistent fitness routine, even during the colder months of the year. Here are some of my favorite winter races:

The Hot Chocolate 15K/5K (24 cities) - Dubbed “America’s Sweetest Race,” The Hot Chocolate series rewards finishers with melted chocolate, treats for dipping, and of course, hot chocolate at the finish line. This race boasts some of the best goodie bags around, including premium running jackets and commemorative hats for legacy finishers. Plus, 15K participants earn a colossal candy-bar shaped medal!

The Diva Running Series (Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Texas) - You will need to prep during the winter months if you want to catch one of the springtime Diva races. Every participant in the Divas Running Series receives a tutu, to wear during the race (if desired). In the final stretch, runners glide through a tiara and boa station for a dazzling finish. Racers earn a glass of bubbly for a post-race toast.

The Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend (Orlando, Fl.) - Every February, racers from all over the world descend upon the Most Magical Place on Earth to enjoy the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend. Enthusiasts can choose from 5k, 10k, or half marathon distances, and costumes are encouraged! Plus the Disney Fairy Tale Challenge is designed for racers who complete both the 10k and Half Marathon distances over the weekend. Runners earn three medals for their effort–one for each race and a bonus medal to commemorate the special challenge.

RECRUIT ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNERS

When I first started running, my greatest motivation was my run crew. Even on days when I didn’t feel like moving, I refused to bail on my squad. The warm camaraderie of great workout partners can help you make it through the cold weather training.

If you aren’t sure where to find a fitness group, there are many resources online to help you connect with people in your area. These are a few starters to help with your search.

Moms Run This Town - Moms Run This Town is a nationwide running club for all women. This group is about engaging with and supporting fellow women on the path to healthy lifestyles. All levels are welcome.

Black Girls Run! - In 2009, Black Girls Run! was founded with the goal to combat the obesity epidemic in the Black community. Their meetups are local with a high priority on inclusiveness and women’s safety while running. Find a local running group in your area and get started.

Fitness Apps - When your schedule does not permit in-person meetups, you can still maintain accountability through social media. Fitness apps like MapMyRun, Strava, and Nike Run Club app are great places to connect with your friends and hold each other accountable for runs and workouts. Safety is always key, however. Learn more about digital safety for runners using apps.

How do you stay motivated during the winter months? Share with us in the comments below!

Note: Items in this post are based on the author’s own recommendations. Some links in this post are affiliate links and RUNGRL may receive compensation for your engagement with them. See full terms of use for details.