Is it bad that I’m sort of glad that it’s almost impossible to run outside right now? I mean, I love running, as you know. But running outside in the winter is a different matter. For the most part, winter runs consist of freezing your ass off. Going eight miles in what feels like subzero conditions is not at the top of most people’s to-do lists. It sucks being uncomfortable for an hour, no matter what you’re doing, praying to god you don’t get frostbite while sliding along the street included.
Running with a group of people in this weather isn’t bad; you can have a conversation and take your mind off the fact that it feels like you’re in Antarctica. Running by yourself, on your own time, however, is a different matter. Do you know how hard it is to leave your cozy, warm house to force yourself to trudge through the next ice age? I do, and it sucks. My body tells me that if it’s cold enough to freeze to death, I shouldn’t go outside.
Maybe the worst part of winter runs is that they can actually be enjoyable, and yes, I realize I make no sense. If it has just snowed, night runs are simply majestic. All the parks in town look beautiful, and there’s a certain tranquility to feeling like the only person around, seeing an unknown wonder. That is, until you realize you can’t feel any of your appendages and you’re half an hour’s jog away from the couch. You always remember how majestic winter can be, but you still can’t bring yourself to run in it.
There’s such a feeling of guilt that comes with really not wanting to run. My years on track and cross country have instilled in me a personal duty to keep in shape. Not running feels like a betrayal to this bizarre duty. But look at how much snow there is outside, and it could start hailing again, so I guess it would be irresponsible for me to go on a run right now. I guess I’ll just have to stay inside and be warm.
Yeah, Illinois winters are pretty harsh. In my opinion, California weather is almost perfect. Even though I'm not exactly a runner, I feel pretty guilty not running. I could probably jog one mile max outside before succumbing to the cold, so once every two weeks, I go run at the YMCA. It's more inspiring for me because of the other runners running alongside you.
ReplyDeleteIn the past days of consistent running, I'd battle inclement weather through gyms and treadmills as well.
ReplyDeleteHowever, the sterile air and presence of other humans in the gym detracts from your well-described solitude and from the beauty of the outdoors. So. Perhaps you could have a hot beverage prepared for when you return, some small (but cherished!) compensation for the bitter cold.
Good post. Yes, it's hard to imagine running in the kind of weather we've had lately. I must admit to being a fair-weather runner. I get exercise in other ways once the weather gets really bitter. But then again, I never run more than a couple miles, even when it's nice out.
ReplyDeleteive actually been going for more runs this winter than usual. normally, its just because i wanna get out of the house, where im being nagged to finish my homeworks. Anyway, ive become accustomed to 11:30 night runs, which are very enjoyable. i only do a few miles, but running in the cold is quite relaxing for me. nevertheless, i still cant wait for it to get warmer, when i wont have to tie underarmor around my ears for protection
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