Running in the Snow
It's finally that time of year. Today we are under a Winter Storm Warning with a possibility of 12 or more inches of fresh powder – not just the light flurries that have teased us a few times in the past weeks. Some runners dread this kind of weather, but not me. Being outdoors in fresh snow makes me joyful; I just love being the first person to leave a footprint.

Running in the snow is not without its hazards of course. So you can choose to avoid them by hiding indoors on the treadmill or (gasp) by not running at all, or you can go out there prepared and have some fun. Here are a few suggestions if you opt to get out there:

Dress properly.
For me, this means: a moisture transfer and high degree of warmth,
a longsleeve, moisture wicking, form fitting base layer
tights or pants
a windproof/waterproof running jacket, preferably one with strategically located zippered vents in case you get too warm
Breath Thermo winter socks
regular running shoes or trail running shoes
Yaktrax for traction

Watch your footing.
There may be a sheet of ice under that fresh snow, so make sure your shoe traction is good. This means the previously mentioned Yaktrax for me. Another option is a pair of trail shoes.

Expect to go a bit slower in the snow, especially at first.
You're going to be using more muscles in your inner and outer thighs than you're used to, and you'll be working a lot harder, which will naturally slow you down.

Relax and have fun.
There's nothing like running in the snow to make you feel like a kid again. Anyone else have any tips for running in the snow?

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