Here Are 5 Benefits Of Running In The Cold

Races usually start early in the morning, at 8 am. I know, for my first couple of runs, I'd get there at 6 in the morning for registration and its cold as a bitch. I'm freezing, my cheeks are numb; my hands feel like ice, I can't feel my ass, and I wonder "why the hell did I sign up for this damn race?" Well, good news, people. Running in the cold actually has its benefits. It's actually better to start training in the cold so that way, you can prep your body and get used to it.

Here are 5 benefits of running in the cold

Running in the cold increases your stamina. Of course, running in the cold is difficult, and it takes not only motivation, but perseverance to do it. The cold, like all adverse weather conditions, trains your body to function during difficult times—much like the later stages of a race will be. Increasing your stamina by running in the cold and adverse weather conditions of winter will increase your race performance.

Running in the cold develops and enhances mental toughness. Just as your body benefits from running in adverse conditions, your mind benefits as well. The mental fortitude gained by running in the cold can propel you to the finish line of a race when the going gets tough.

Running in the cold trains you for cold-weather races. If you live somewhere that sees cold weather for a significant part of the year, running in the cold is inevitable. Just as inevitable, if you are an avid racer, is running a race in the cold. Training in the cold mimics race-time conditions, allowing your body to become used to what it will experience during a race and increasing race day performance.

Running in the cold prepares you for a more productive spring running season. Most cold weather running takes place during the winter months, when many armchair athletes remain dormant. Bucking this trend and running in the cold prepares you for increased performance come springtime. Maintaining a base level of fitness throughout the winter months results in faster runs and better endurance during the following spring and summer running seasons.

Running in the cold is less difficult than running when it is hot. While running, the body generates excess heat that is exhausted through the skin. Running in the cold keeps the body cool, allowing heat to escape more readily. With proper cold weather gear, running in the cold can be easier than running on a hot summer day.