Embrace the Elements: Benefits of Winter Running
It’s tough to run in the dark, in bad weather, and in cold temperatures. But, as the saying goes, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going!” Let’s explore some of the advantages of winter running.
Winter running is the time to develop your mental toughness and up your game. Finishing a run under miserable weather conditions is an incredible confidence booster, and it will help get you out there next time.
Sure, it’s freezing outside. But before you retreat to the treadmill for your run, consider this:
Advantages of Winter Running
Cold temperatures can help convert unwanted fat into a type that burns calories. The fat in your body isn’t equal. There’s white, brown, and shades in between. White fat is what we commonly think of when we think of unwanted body fat. Brown fat is metabolic tissue that actually burns calories. There’s a growing body of scientific literature that suggests exposing our bodies to cold temperatures turns our white fat to brown. That means heading outside for a winter run could not only help you burn calories, it could change your body composition.
Cold is actually the ideal weather for running. You aren’t likely to overheat. Because of this, winter running is actually somewhat easier.
You’ll strengthen your heart. Cold weather also makes the heart work harder to distribute blood throughout the body.
You’ll feel happier and more energized. Cold-weather exercise also has the ability to boost one’s mood, thanks to the lack of humidity (which creates that heavy air feeling in the summer months) and the stimulating aspect of the chill. As the body works harder to stay warm, the amount of endorphins produced also increases, leaving you with a stronger sense of happiness and lightness following a workout in the cold.
Calories Burned in Cold Weather
Running is an excellent way to prevent winter weight gain, especially since we often move less and eat more during the colder months. We tend to move less and eat more in the colder months. Running burns significant calories and is therefore a powerful tool in maintaining and even losing weight during winter.
Running will keep your metabolism going strong. Our bodies are programmed to preserve our fat stores in the winter, slowing down our metabolisms in direct response to our decreased exercise levels. Running in the cold serves to ‘trick’ the body, preventing this seasonal slowdown of metabolism and helping to maintain a healthy weight.
You’ll burn more calories. When it’s cold, you start shivering because muscle movement helps heat up the body. When you run in the cold, your body works harder to stay warm. This means you burn more calories, effectively allowing you to lose weight without even trying.
Social Aspects of Winter Running with Friends
Embracing winter running showcases your dedication and resilience, making you stronger both mentally and physically. When you layer up with your running friends, there’s something special and bonding about bundling up and braving the harsh winter air. Share your winter running experiences with us and inspire others to join the challenge!