{"id":316644,"date":"2020-11-13T06:00:53","date_gmt":"2020-11-13T06:00:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/formnutrition.com\/us\/inform\/the-complete-guide-to-running-during-the-winter-months-2\/"},"modified":"2021-12-09T04:22:07","modified_gmt":"2021-12-09T09:22:07","slug":"the-complete-guide-to-running-during-the-winter-months-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/formnutrition.com\/us\/inform\/the-complete-guide-to-running-during-the-winter-months-2\/","title":{"rendered":"The Complete Guide To Running During the Winter Months"},"content":{"rendered":"

According to a report by Brand Watch, 207,000 people shared their running stats on social media in March 2020 \u2013 more than January and February combined. Not just that, but there was a 92 percent increase in downloads for the NHS’ \u2018Couch to 5k\u2019 app. Simply put, people were seriously into<\/em> running during that first coronavirus lockdown.<\/p>\n

Now, with a second lockdown underway, many runners<\/a> are lacing up and getting the miles done in slightly chillier temperatures. But freezing temperatures, pitch-black evenings, and icy roads don\u2019t make for the most enticing of conditions. You probably know that once you get going it\u2019ll be a joy, but hauling yourself out of the warm embrace of your duvet to get to that point, quite frankly, isn\u2019t.<\/p>\n

Feeling unmotivated then or want some top tips from the pros on how to transition from summer runner to winter warrior? We\u2019ve spoken to running coach and personal trainer Lillie Bleasdale<\/a> of Passa Training and the third fastest British female marathon runner in history, Charlotte Purdue<\/a> of Purdue Performance.<\/p>\n

Below, they share their words of wisdom on how to warm up and stay safe as it gets darker, earlier. Plus, kit yourself out with the best winter running gear with their winter layers buying guide. Keep reading, and remember: run strong.<\/p>\n

How Does Winter Running Differ From Summer Running?<\/h2>\n

Beyond the obvious? That is, it\u2019s cold, it\u2019s wet, and it\u2019s oh-so-hard to get out of bed. There are many psychological and environmental barriers for runners to overcome during the winter months of the year. \u201cThe shortening of daylight hours, the decrease in temperature and the increase in wetter weather are all environmental differences which make it a little more difficult to get out the door,\u201d Bleasdale explains.<\/p>\n

But how does winter running affect you physically, and does your body react in the same way as it does during sunnier months? Apparently not, according to Bleasdale. \u201cSome studies suggest that winter running should be easier as an increase in thermal sensation levels leads to a higher level of comfort and ability to consistently sustain their efforts,\u201d she explains.<\/p>\n