Hello from a very endorphin-wasted runner who is thrilled to have just finished her first snowy run of 2016!
After a relaxing afternoon, curled up on the couch reading, I finally laced up my shoes for a run. Unlike many runners, seeing that snowflakes were falling outside actually motivated me to get moving. There is nothing I love more than watching small snowflakes accumulate on my gloves or gear as I run outside. I know, I’m a crazy person for enjoying the cold but I blame it on 22 years of heat and humidity. After dealing with Savannah summers, you welcome four seasons and cold weather.
Since I’d already done speed and hill work this week at both Mile High and during my NYRR group run, today’s run was meant to be my long run. Since the temperature was 33 degrees I opted for fleece leggings, windproof running gloves, my new Nike Pro Limitless training hoodie, Lululemon ear warmer, and Brooks vest (on super sale right now).
I arrived at Prospect Park with no goals. I wanted to enjoy the run, zone out, enjoy the people watching, and catch snow flakes falling from the sky. Who knew I’d actually run into six horses, which looked like Clydsedales, during my run!
I’m not sure if it was the power, tempo and beat of the SoulCycle x Target Spotify playlist which I listened to my run or the frigid weather, but this run was five miles of perfection.
While I still have eight more long runs in between me and my goal half marathon, the NYC Half, today’s negative splits (9:01, 8:53, 8:41, 8:33, 7:54) left me excited to see what is possible. I guess these legs like weather that is cold and blustery enough to chill the soul. That final mile was motivated by the fact that I knew I had a hot bath and cup of tea waiting at home.
Looking for more winter running inspiration? Check out these posts:
Your turn: Do you prefer cold weather or warm weather running? What’s your favorite piece of winter running gear right now?
I love my REI fleece running hat (it has a ponytail hole!) and my tech friendly North Face running gloves. My must haves for freezing cold runs! Love your lulu ear warmer btw. Might have to keep an eye out for one!
It’s a great one Rebecca, you’ll love it! I could use more gloves as my hands were cold this week!
I’m not a huge runner so it never even crossed my mind to go for a run on a snowy day – but you make it sound like such a good idea!
My subzero running tights. I actually bought the brand you recommended years ago! A great investment. You definitely have your ear to the ground when it comes to good, quality running/workout apparel.
Would love to see a post on how you incorporate your boutique fitness classes with your half training (aka- what do you sub out in favor of those workouts). I’m looking to do the same with Orange Theory this spring for my May marathon.
YES! I actually wore these on Sunday for the run Rebecca. Aren’t they the best!? If you didn’t check out my half marathon training plan post last week, definitely give it a read. I’ll also do another, more indepth post, about how I incorproate boutique classes. http://www.healthyhappierbear.com/2016/01/05/my-2016-nyc-half-marathon-training-plan/
What a fantastic run! I am with you on the cold runs. I definitely perform better with a chill in the air. Reason why I plan goal races around still cold enough temps.
My under armour cold gear leggings are my go to for these chilly runs.
YES! I love my Under Armour Cold Gear leggings too! I wore mine the other night and will likely wear them again Thursday morning. Amen to goal races in cold temps. That’s why I’m hoping that it’s nice and cool on March 20th!
I like fall running! In MN we’ve got a -20ish windchill right now, so I’m happy to take walks, but I don’t want to run and slip on ice.
Wow Katie, that’s serious cold weather! I don’t blame you for not running outside!
Neither? Haha. I’m a very fair weather runner! I like when it’s around 55 degrees and low humidity. I can handle warm-ish weather when it’s low humidity. I live in Savannah, so that’s not often!
PS – I just finished reading all of your race recaps. I’m pretty sure my sister and I saw you and your mom at the Publix Women’s Half. It was my sister’s first half! =)
Awesome Lauren! It was my mom’s first half too!!
Those horses are gorgeous!
My last outside long run was last week – it was a gorgeous evening, but -17 (Celcius, so roughly 1 degree Farenheit I guess?) and a massive windchill made me question my sanity after 6 miles. I popped into to my gym to do the last 5k on the treadmill, and totally overheated even though I’d removed so many layers I’m sure it looked like a strip show! We’ve had crazy icy weather this week, but when the roads and sidewalks are clear, there’s nothing more peaceful than an evening run in the snow.
Good luck with your training! Those are some great splits – finishing fast is awesome!