Let me tell you a secret. I hate to ski. Although the act of skiing is a thrill, it’s too expensive and too cold. I don’t like waiting in lines, languishing in traffic and putting on all the gear (<plus going to the bathroom is a nightmare). Mostly, I fear injury, which would sabotage my greatest love – running!
I might not have told you that when I first moved to Colorado I was skiing like a maniac down a mountain – way faster than my skill-base allowed for - and I crossed my skis and proceeded to fall, spinning on my face. I was carried down on a stretcher having broken my wrist and busted my lip (and my pride).
So, if skiing isn’t my winter thing, what is? Do you really have to ask?
I adore running in the winter. I adore running in the snow in the winter. I adore running in the snow on a beautiful Colorado trail in the winter. This is my favorite winter workout by far.
The good news is that you don’t have to live in Colorado to run on trails. In fact, there is likely one near you (unless you live in some concrete jungle, then you might have to drive a bit, but I promise it is worth it). Just be aware that there will be no gas stations or coffee shops where you can warm up. Dress for the weather and keep in mind that it can change quickly and drastically. As I’ve said in previous posts, one my favorite go-to brands for winter weather gear is Target® C9. Stylish, affordable and great quality.
One thing I love about trails is that you don’t have to have a set workout in terms of varying speed, etc. By nature, trails have hills and valleys and varied terrain. This means your heart rate and pace automatically vary throughout the run without you having to think about it.
Why run trails? Well, besides the fact that you get to clear your head in the best way possible and can leave behind the gym rats, the car exhaust and other distractions, there are many benefits to getting on the trails:
- The trail’s softer and varied surface is less stress on the joints.
- Taking uneven steps due to changes in terrain helps you to create better balance. It also encourages the use of different muscle groups than you would engage on pavement or concrete.
- Trail running can potentially reduce the risk of injury because movements are less repetitive than on a treadmill or on pavement (although you do have to watch out for those nasty roots and rocks. I’ve had my fair share of face plants on the trail).
- Most trails are full of hills. Overall, tackling hills can make you a stronger and faster runner.
- Running trails adds variety to your everyday workouts.
What is your favorite wintertime workout?
Do you spend anytime on the trails?
SUAR
Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Target® C9 through their partnership with POPSUGAR Select. While I was compensated to write a post about Target® C9 all opinions are my own.
