28 Frozen-Faced, Beardsicle-Filled Photos That Prove Winter Running Can Be the Most Fun of All – runnersworld.com

“I live in Siberia so I don’t have a choice! I’ve got good outdoor equipment and motivation to be better than yesterday.” – kotvarvara

“My motivation to get outside for a winter run is knowing that the added difficulty of the harsh conditions helps me mimic what I might feel at the end of a race, so I have something to reflect on when I get to those tough spots.” – kelscreed

“Honestly, running in the cold and snow beats running in place on the treadmill most days—and winter can be so pretty! I stick my shoes and gloves on a Peet dryer before I head out, so I start the run with toasty hands and feet! It helps!” – erinclowder

“I love running outside in the snow and cold because of the adventure and challenge it gives me. Running in the snow gives you a tougher terrain to navigate, and I always wear my trail running shoes in the snow for the added traction. There is also the added benefit of the beauty and solitude you get while running in the cold snow.” – fitadventuremom

“I get motivated for snowy runs knowing I get to share some miles with other awesome people!” – raeanne.gill

“Living in a very wintery city like Ottawa or anywhere in Canada that experiences winter, you have to embrace the weather or you’ll never get out! A spring race goal is also always good motivation to get out when is cold and dark.” – swimbikerunkat

“My motivation for going on a cold snowy run is just how I feel after getting those miles in. Knowing I pushed through the snow and less than desirable temperatures, makes me beyond proud of the self-discipline I have to stay on track—it leaves me feeling incredibly strong and empowered. And as a mother of two little girls who are always watching, it means so much to have them see that in me, so they can learn to always see the same in themselves.” – samanthajane730

“Every season is beautiful and great for running in my opinion. The snow gives well-known routes a new and magical look. And the kids just love it. All that and the crisp fresh air beat the treadmill any day. With the right clothing, of course.” – strollerninja

“The serene beauty gets me out in it—the most familiar trails become exciting new adventures under a blanket of new snow!” – dmable122

“I simply hate running on the dreadmill, so I’ll do whatever it takes to avoid it. I also believe that training in harsh conditions will only make me stronger when the weather improves.” – jattmaxson

“My motivation for snow runs is the same for any outdoor run—to achieve the ‘runners high.’” – devar.is

“Running may not be the first thing you envision yourself doing when it’s snowing, but trust me when I tell you that having a plan to defy Mother Nature—in a smart and responsible way—can be a life-changing experience. Running while it’s snowing is an experience like no other. You will be amazed at the tranquility and beauty of the scenery. Just imagine the snowflakes falling all over your face and hearing the snow crunching while you run.” – beardedtrilife

“If you hibernate all winter, you miss the most glorious skies. I can’t imagine staying inside and missing the chance to see them. They never feel old. They always feel new. Winter weather can be incredibly beautiful in Ottawa, especially on days with hoar frost and diamond dust. It’s almost magical. I try to enjoy it.” – ladybugsrun

“It’s just part of the process. Knowing it’s going suck, but my goals won’t be reached by sitting at home. Plus, I hate, hate treadmill running. Unfortunately, days like today. I have no other choice.” – kurts_runningfitness

“I read once that bad weather looks worse from the other side of a window. It’s true, I always find that once I am out moving it’s never as bad as it might look (once you are well wrapped up!) Running in the snow changes your normal run route into a whole new experience. Nobody can deny that a dusting of snow makes everything look so pretty! Hearing snow crunching under your feet can be very satisfying.” – nicolacc2008

“Winter running is my absolute favorite time of year to run. Knowing that my early mornings will be filled with solitude and a sense of calming is what gets me out the door. Having the right gear is key, and knowing your body and how it runs (hot or cold). Tomorrow, I am starting at 5 a.m. to run 35 miles for my birthday during a snow storm!” – ncmb2323

“I have a lot of motivations for getting outside to run! First, I am on a run streak (all outdoors!) So, I kinda have to get outside! But second, all this snow makes me feel like a kid again, and it makes me feel like I am playing and not running.” – sherunskc

“Running has been a part of me since I was a little boy. Now a father and engineer, running is my time. My release. Helps me focus on other as aspects of my life. But as an ex-collegiate runner for VT, my competitiveness is still a major driving force!” – run4brewz

“Find a good running group or two, and stick with them. My running group Trottin Oxen is an awesome group of folks who run all year long, and the last thing on earth I’d want to do is let them down by not showing up!” – thehairyrunner

“Create habits of running in all kinds of weather conditions, and eventually you will find yourself running in any and all conditions. Being from New York, we see it all!” – irun26point2_

“Upcoming races always keep me motivated, along with knowing each trail will look like a new, magical place covered in snow! I always feel like I’ve been transported to some new, unrecognizable world when I run on my familiar trails in the snow. The landscape is captivating.” – jenn.wandering

“This is my first winter in Canada (from Australia!) so my motivation tip to get out in winter would be sign up to a great spring running event now, and use that to motivate you to get out the door and brave the cold. Also, if you can find a brave running buddy to meet up with so you know someone is counting on you to turn up.” – amanda_runs_22

“I just love running in the snow, quite honestly. Everything becomes a trail running experience, so just bundle up well, get out there, and have fun. The variability in surfaces makes it easier to get into that flow state, and is super beneficial for all your stabilizer muscles.” – cardiacoutput

“Our best tip to stay motivated to run in the cold is to have a good running mate that you can always count on—nothing like not being alone to stay motivated!” – teamcauchon

“My tip for getting motivated for a cold snowy run is don’t overthink it. As long as you have your layers, just put ’em on and go.” – gomattmorgan

“Just layer up and enjoy the run. Winter running isn’t about pace or distance, it’s all about connecting with yourself and your surroundings with every step. Plus, you get infinite bragging rights for being a winter warrior!” – heather.in.mtl

“Running is always better with friends, but in the winter, running with a group is one of the best motivators! Knowing that we’re all in it together and that my run family is counting on me (and me, them) to show up, makes me layer up and brave the elements. And you never know what the conditions will be like on race day, so when the winter weather gets tough, I remind myself that it’s good preparation for whatever Mother Nature decides to throw at me on the big day.” – rundigsleep

“I’m not saying it’s easy to leave a warm bed or a comfy couch on a frigid day, but getting outside even on the coldest of winter days always makes me feel alive—and badass. The first mile (or two) can feel like the hardest, but your body warms up and the sense of accomplishment of having run in tougher elements is pretty fantastic. Dress smart for the weather, have a sense of adventure and just go.” – michiganrunnergirl