Happy Healthy RD

Living a happy healthy life

Winter Running – 20 degree wind chill

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This weekend was my first week attending Borgess Run Camp which is a 13-week training program for a half marathon. (It started last week but I had to miss due to work)   I’ve done Run Camp for the past 3 years and I keep going back for more.  It’s a great way to force myself to get outside in run during the winter and it’s always fun to meet fellow runners.  The way it works is you sign up for a pace group and are matched up with two coaches and a team of runners of similar pace.

The biggest struggle I find is figuring out what to wear on winter runs.  It seems like I’m either overdressed or underdressed so I thought I would start to keep track of the conditions, what I wore, and how it worked to hopefully get a better handle on what to wear each week.

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It was in the 20’s with not a lot of wind or precipitation.

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What I wore:

I ended up being on the warm side.  Mostly just my head was overheating.  Next time I think I’ll either go for a lighter hat, headband, or I could just wear a jacket with a hood.  I was pretty sweaty after the 5 mile run and wonder if I could get away with just one long sleeve layer with this jacket at this temp.

Next weekend looks even colder and snowy so I might add another layer on the bottom and stay the same on top.

Be Happy, Be Healthy!

Cold Weather Essentials

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The cold weather has arrived in Michigan.  The leaves have dropped and last week it snowed – winter is definitely on its way.  One of the things I love most about Michigan is the seasons but I really do not like being cold.  You know that physical feeling of being cold – your shoulders are scrunched and your fingers and toes are icy to the touch.  Luckily I’ve figured out some ways to stay toasty and comfortable when the temperatures are dropping.  Here’s what worked for me last winter. (The words ‘Polar Vortex’ alone make me shiver.)

essentials

1. !  If you live somewhere cold, you have to get one of these.  I typically have it on my bed and turn it on a few minutes before getting under the covers.  There is nothing worse than getting into a cold bed and this warms up the sheets perfectly.  I have also been known to use it on the couch on particularly cold days.

blanket

2. Cozy layers and warm socks are absolute musts.  I find that if my neck and feet are warm I’m much more comfortable.  Scarves are pretty much part of my outfit every day in the winter and I love them! Last year I also discovered leg warmers. Perfect for wearing over leggings and skinny jeans. Warmth definitely trumps fashion most of the time.
layers socks

3.  My skin does not agree with the cold.  Dry patches, redness, and sometimes my face just hurts after being outside.  My favorite skin savers are and .  I’ll use these around my nose, on my lips, on my hands and nails, and on any dry patches I might have on my face. 

 

4. Tea, hot chocolate, coffee, or whatever your favorite hot drink is – now is the time to enjoy it.  Nothing warms me up faster than a hot drink.

This winter I’m really going to focus on enjoying the season and relishing those cozy nights in with candles, hot drinks, and my heated blanket.

Have a great day!