A run needs to be perfect no matter the weather. There is nothing better than perfect running weather, but not every time you get what you want and still willing to go for a run amidst the snow and the sleet. Deciding to run in the cold and the slippery requires every bit of caution and strength. With that note, you also keep in mind the old proverb, “there is no bad weather, only bad clothing”. Also, before getting started you need to keep in mind that extreme cold weather is probably not the best time to run, but it is ideal for a brisk walk.

However, if there is nothing to stop no matter, the cold wind, sleet, or snow and you have made up your mind to go running, here are a few tips to help steer clear of all the hassles and challenges that might befall you. Even if you are a professional runner (or not), these tips are directed at keeping your best interest at heart.

Do Not Try To Break Any Records

You might be a good runner and have won races and marathons, but things change when you are running in extremely cold temperatures. Cold air is damaging to your lungs and so it is important to keep the speed in check. Keep the speed moderate and check whether you are panting. Once you have started panting, it is a sign that you have to decrease your speed and make sure you are not panting in the entire exercise. Speed running on sleet also has another problem. An increase in speed also increases your chance to slip and fall due to loss of traction.

Take Control of Your Centre of Gravity

It does not take much time to understand that you should not run the way you would in normal weather i.e., weight shifted a bit front with an elliptical movement). Instead, get inspired by the penguins and their way of walking. Move your leg like this arctic bird with the weight resting on the navel area and top of your hips. Ensure that the leg movement is shorter and more circular.

Choose The Correct Running Track

Though it depends a lot on the weather when it comes to tracks, the dangerous ones are little to no snow with solid black ice. Make sure you are either running on tracks that have gravel or sand and not on asphalt. Asphalt poses a risk when there is ice and if there is no ice, then running on asphalt is fine, but you have to keep in mind your leg movement alongside brisk walking.

Running after Sunset

Darkness is of great danger to the runners and for a pedestrian on foot it is easy to see things, but that changes drastically for someone who is driving. That’s why it is suggested to use plenty of reflectors and headlamps as a part of your running gear for runners and joggers who are out and about in the snow and sleet. Apart from this, you should also wear bright-collared clothing that increases visibility for up to 150 meters.

Spend Time Warming Up

Beginnings are always important especially when you are going out for a run in the cold. So apart from keeping in mind the tips above, it is also suggested to spend more time warming up and take up fifteen minutes instead of ten. Also, do the opposite when you are cooling down and take short time during winters as you will cool down much faster.