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Thoughts Runners Have During a Winter Run

Winter running season is in full force, and I am finding my excitement for snow being compromised with freezing temperatures and wind chills. Each time I eagerly step outside to run in the winter wonderland, I am greeted by icy wind chills and slippery sidewalks.

This past weekend, my “long run” of 5 miles was especially challenging. While the temperatures were in the 20s (a heat wave this week!) the wind was brutal. The roads had been plowed, but running on the shoulder consisted of leftover slush and snow piles from the plow. The sidewalks hadn’t be shoveled, which left me with limited options for traction (thank goodness for my Yaktrax!). As I trudged along into the wind, I questioned my own sanity and wondered why I didn’t pick a hobby that takes place indoors.

Related: Game Changing Winter Running Gear

This winter running season has been especially brutal. As I trudge along into the wind, I question my own sanity and wondered why I don't pick a hobby that takes place indoors. Here are some of my favorite thoughts runners have during a cold, snowy, winter run.

No doubt I’m not alone with these thoughts this time of year, and I wanted to share some from this past run, and throughout the winter running season so far. Here are some of my favorite thoughts runners have during a cold, slippery run:)

This winter running season has been especially brutal. As I trudge along into the wind, I question my own sanity and wondered why I don't pick a hobby that takes place indoors. Here are some of my favorite thoughts runners have during a cold, snowy, winter run.

Thoughts Runners Have During a Winter Run

  • Why am I doing this?
  • Maybe running these 10 miles on the treadmill wouldn’t be that bad…
  • I can’t feel my toes.
  • My hands are numb.
  • I wish I’d worn a face mask.
  • The people in that car probably think I’m crazy.
  • Another runner! I am not alone! I can do this.
  • Maybe if I slip I’ll twist my ankle and not be able to run for the next few weeks.
  • I’m going to take up an indoor sport.
  • My husband/friend/parent is so lucky that they’re inside right now.
  • Maybe my ski goggles would help?
  • That hot shower is going to feel so good!
  • I’m definitely not going outside again for the rest of the day.
  • That snow sure hurts when it whips me in the face.
  • Stupid snow plows that don’t plow the shoulder.
  • Why can’t everybody shovel their sidewalks?!
  • Okay, now I’m sweating.
  • I’m definitely more hardcore than anyone I know.

Despite all these thoughts, once I get home I always feel a million times better than when I started. Running through the winter makes me feel a little less guilty about my slow pace, and a lot more intense. Battling the elements sure can bring it’s challenges, but it’s definitely worth it.

Hopefully the winter tundra has been treating you well out there, friends!

Further winter running reading:

Running Humor Thoughts During Winter Run

Running Humor Thoughts During Winter Run

Running Humor: 42 Funny Running Quotes, Jokes and Thoughts

Monday 2nd of March 2020

[…] when running starts to feel impossible, these thoughts runners have will help remind you that we all experience similar feelings – no matter how much we love […]

The Best Winter Running Gear for Cold Weather Runs | Runnin' for Sweets

Monday 14th of January 2019

[…] taken quite a few years and many brutal runs, but I’ve finally learned a few lessons about dressing for the cold weather running season. […]

5 Ways to Keep Running When It Gets Cold and Dark | Runnin’ for Sweets

Monday 8th of October 2018

[…] excited as I am to see summer running coming to an end, this only means that cold weather running is right around the corner. The current fall running season really spoils us, it’s still hard […]

The Best Things About Winter Running | Runnin' for Sweets

Friday 20th of April 2018

[…] that we have gotten our first real snowfall of the season, it is finally starting to feel like winter. As I look out my window, I can’t help but get excited when those big fat snowflakes fall. […]

How to Build a Solid Running Base | Runnin’ for Sweets

Friday 20th of April 2018

[…] of running through the winter. However, despite my best efforts (and failed attempts), I know that winter is not the ideal time for intense training. It’s nearly impossible to complete double digit runs when no trail is […]

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