A real athlete is like the mail man. Neither snow, nor rain, nor storm can keep him off the track. So as today it started snowing here in Vienna, I thought we should talk about running on snow and ice today!

Don't give up over a little snow!

Back home I used to stop running when temperatures dropped to freezing conditions. This wasn’t because I couldn’t stand the cold. I’m addicted to running and there’s no temperature that can stop me! The problem was slipping on the frozen ground. When a thin layer of ice covers everything, you’re worried not to slip when you walk. Which makes running sound crazy and suicidal!

However, if you take the proper precautions you might not have to give up running during winter. You have to listen to your body and be very careful. You must understand that such great effort in freezing temperatures is strenuous for the body, and the slippery ground radically increases the chances of injury. To be safe, try to tick these helpful rules before you head out.

1. Make sure you are ready for this.
   Your body will have a great shock if it’s not used to the cold. You should never start all of a sudden. Try to ease your way into winter by continuously going running as the temperatures decrease.
2. Warm up!
   Your muscles have a harder time worming up, so you might want to try a quick warm up before you leave the house. Also, there are gels that warm you up in a few minutes after you apply them. Massage some on your legs just before you put your clothes on.
3. Dress smart!
   You need to feel warm while, but light. You need to feel that you can move in your clothes, not be stuffed like a turkey under those layers. From the head down, you’ll need something warm on your head (if you sweat while running and your hair gets wet you might catch a cold). A scarf is also important because you will be breathing in very cold air very fast. You need to keep your neck and your chest warm. If you feel the air is so too cold you can even breathe through your scarf. A blouse and a warm jacket should do. Take into consideration that you might sweat, so your under lair should be a little absorbent. You really don’t want to stay wet! A pair of pants in which you can move should do. All sports shops have suitable pants that you can run in, so that shouldn’t be a problem. You might want to wear a pair of warm underwear: hotpants rather than thongs. And be sure to have a good pair of socks on. You’re going to be running in the snow, so make sure your fingers won’t freeze off!
4. Good shoes!!
   A pair of good trainers is crucial. They must have a little adherence, so make sure you’re not likely to slip with them. As any running shoes, make sure they’re build to protect your knees from hard impact. Many trainers are made to let air in, which is wonderful during warm seasons, but now you’ll need a good warm pair.
5. Pick a good place!
   Whatever you do, don’t start running on dangerous terrain. Uneven terrain covered with a lair of snow is the worst choice you can make. Try to find a track designed for running, or a trail that you know. Remember to watch your feet and avoid icy areas. Listen to your body and to the way your feet bounce of the ground as you run. You should be able to tell if it’s safe for you or not.
6. Enjoy yourself!
   Winter is beautiful. Just when you thought you couldn’t stand seeing the same scenery over and over again, nature comes and gives it a white makeover. Even if the cold makes it much harder and inconvenient for you to run, try to enjoy it. The best run I ever had was on last year’s first snow!

You should leave a comment and tell me what you think!