It may be getting colder out, but you can still jump for excitement! We still have the ability to get outside and exercise, where a lot of people still cannot choose. Does it get tough to get motivated to get out there when you see how cold it is, and how strong the wind is? Absolutely! But, by the time all is said and done, you still feel better when you get done…just that right now when it is cold, you feel even better now when you get done.
First, we can get excited that the majority of the trails are still open, and not icy, and snow covered. We will take this as long as we can. Just like any sport, you have to have the right equipment for it. You dress in layers, and you can take layers off as you need. Your pockets often times are packed with a mask, extra gloves, etc, but if you are prepared, then the run, or walk outside, is much more enjoyable. And, no matter what, it is still much better than being stuck inside on a treadmill!
Here are many of us in the run club, after we got done with our run. We all have the right equipment on, layers on, to handle the cold. That does not mean I don’t want it to get warm out. It is still more enjoyable in the Summer, but you can make if more enjoyable by being prepared for it. You just have to remember one important point:
That is why you have to keep moving! If you stay moving, you stay warm. It helps keep you motivated to keep going, and then you get done faster! We had just gotten done with a run club run last year, and we had just gotten some new light snow during the run. Our tracks were present yet on the way back.
It helps to know where you have been, but it is much more important to know where you want to go! Keep looking forward. Tough conditions make you stronger. Don’t think…just get out and move! You can do this by yourself, but there is no question it is much easier to do when you have friends/training partners with you. This way, if it is windy, you can help take turns blocking the wind. That is what Sarah and I did on our run yesterday. You work together. You motivate each other. The cold is just a temperature…don’t let it decide whether you will exercise or not. If it gets bad enough, it may change where you exercise, or how far or how much you exercise, but don’t let it stop you! You will amaze even yourself at what you may be capable of doing. Enjoy it! When people drive by and look at us outside running, they all think we are crazy! Some days, maybe we are…but we are not going to let is stop us from what we enjoy doing! Keep moving everybody, and remember, you may just have to dress warmer!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 3707
