Do you hesitate to go for a run outdoors when it is freezing?
Here’s why you should bite the bullet and ditch the treadmill, if possible:
- Running releases feel-good chemicals:
Running releases endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, which can improve your mood.
This is important in all seasons but often more needed in the cold weather months.
- Running reduces symptoms of depression:
Regular exercise such as running can help reduce symptoms of depression.
- Running improves sleep:
Running in the morning can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly.
And since it gets darks so early now, morning is the best time to run.
- Running increases confidence:
Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?
Setting and achieving running goals can help you feel more confident and accomplished.
Now is the time to start on those goals.
- Running improves focus:
Nature can provide a break from daily stimuli, which can help improve focus.
Do you stare at the computer most of the day?
Try to take a break and go for a run…
- Running increases energy:
Exercising outdoors (by going for a run) can increase your energy levels.
- While Running you absorb vitamin D:
The sun provides vitamin D, which can improve your mood and energy levels.
Obviously it’s best to go for a run on a sunny day but there is still more vitamin D outdoors on a cloudy day than inside.
Happy Running! Do you run outdoors in January? Why or why not? Please share.
Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).
and tomorrow:
I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs
My First 5K and More... 
Well… you don’t really want to hear my feeling about running in January- it’s one of the best months of the year down here. But I will add that running in inclement weather will give you a real feel of accomplishment. And then, if you have a race where it’s raining, cold, snowing, etc. you can think “I’ve done this before” and not be intimidated.
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We definitely have different climates. -13 wind chill this morning.
That is true about running in bad weather because on race day, it’s out of your control.
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Ah yes! The depression! Running is what’s keeping me afloat right now!
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Exactly. This weather is so depressing
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Ah, yes! Running is what’s keeping the depression at bay right now!
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Yup. It really helps.
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These are all great points! I still struggle to get out in the morning because of the weather. I have noticed the difference when I don’t run. I become a person I do not want to be friends with. Haha.
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I would run with you if I lived closer. And yes, I can’t will myself to run these cold dark mornings.
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