Don’t Let Winter Steal Your Running

What I wore during a 10 degree run- an OMR favorite hoody, Outdoor Research puffy coat, insulated pants from Athleta, Darn tough tall wool socks.

Yikes! It is cold outside- Sometimes I genuinely enjoy complaining about how cold it is. At this point, it’s practically a hobby. But if I’m being honest, it doesn’t help me feel my best. I love where I live, and winter is part of the deal, so choosing a more positive mindset matters. Once I get past the initial shock of the cold, snowy months- I’ve learned how to settle into the season. It isn’t easy, but it always feels better once I’m out the door.

Running is important to my fitness but mentally, I need these runs. I know that about myself. Running outside does far more than maintain my fitness. It steadies my mood, balances my energy, and keeps my confidence intact.

I know how important staying committed to consistency is. Letting myself skip “just one day” is rarely just one. One becomes two, then three, then four. Fitness slips, motivation fades, and when I fall out of my routine, the winter blues arrive fast.

1. Put a race on the calendar.
Nothing gets me moving like knowing I’ll be running a course I actually trained for. Race day feels social to me. I love enjoying the trail, chatting with people, and feeling good at the finish so I can hang out and soak it all in. The training miles are what make that possible. Here is link to a list of Midwest Wisconsin and Illinois trail running events.

2. My controversial strategy: I overdress.
The “start cold” rule has never been my rule. That initial blast of cold? No thanks. I’d rather be warm from the first step to the last. As long as I’m able to run or run/walk the whole time, the extra layers work for me.

3. I bargain with myself.
I tell myself I’ll just run one mile and then decide if I want to keep going. I’ve yet to stop at one. Once I get over that first hump, I always want more.

4. I start slow.
This matters year-round, but it’s especially important in winter. Let the body warm up. There’s no prize for rushing the first mile on frozen legs.

5. I protect the mental space.

My runs are my time to relax. I focus on being present instead of mentally carrying my entire to-do list with me. When my mind starts drifting toward stressful tasks, I can feel it immediately in my body. Fatigue shows up faster, and the run feels heavier.

That’s why this time matters. Giving yourself space to unplug, move, and simply exist without guilt isn’t selfish — it’s essential.

6. Add a little play.
Light speedwork keeps winter miles interesting. Strides between ice patches. Pick a landmark and run to it. Add music. Make it a game. Winter doesn’t have to feel endless.

7. Prepare for the after-party (aka the drive home).
Nothing ruins motivation like finishing a run and shivering all the way home because you didn’t pack dry clothes. Warm layers, dry socks, and something cozy make a huge difference.

8. Chase the scenery.
Winter turns trails into art. The quiet, the crunch, the stillness. I have places I truly love more this time of year, and they’re always worth the effort.

9. Be careful out there.
Ice is sneaky. Walking is smart. Staying upright keeps you running all season long.

10. Build accountability.
This one is big. I always start the year with the Ornery Mule Mileage Challenge and Trail Runner University programs. Strava challenges work great too. Or go old-school and log your miles in a notebook. Just add one extra layer of commitment.

11. Make your gear grab-and-go.
Nothing derails motivation like hunting for gloves in five different drawers. A winter-running basket by the door is a small act of kindness to your future self.

12. Adjust expectations and give yourself grace.
Winter is not the season for perfect splits. The ground is crunchy, the air is sharp, and your body is working harder. Success looks different in the cold.

Winter running isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up for yourself in small, meaningful ways, even when the wind tries to talk you out of it. Every cold-mile victory builds confidence for spring and keeps you connected to the runner you want to be.

Give yourself credit. Give yourself grace. And remember, winter miles count in ways warmer miles never could.

What helps you stay motivated when the world turns frosty?