3 reasons all runners should hit the trails this winter

Winter isn’t just a season; it’s an opportunity to tap into the feel of the run and harness both the physical and mental benefits provided by frosty landscapes. Road runners and trail enthusiasts alike should head for some dirt paths in the chillier seasons—you’ll master the art of running by effort, hone your strength and balance and level up your mental resilience. Here are a few reasons to hit the trails in winter, regardless of your preferred terrain during the warmer months.

Practice running by RPE (rate of perceived exertion)

Learning how to run by effort, rather than pace, is useful in all seasons and on all types of surfaces. Learning what “moderate” and “hard” paces feel like can be challenging, and winter is the perfect time to practice. You’ll probably already be running slightly more slowly than usual due to the cold weather and careful foot placement, and it can be a relief to focus on the sensations of your effort rather than trying to check off specific splits.

Winter running has unique benefits

You have probably heard of some of the special benefits winter running has to offer (or have already experienced the particular challenges of winter), but here’s a reminder: navigating through slick and snowy surfaces demands an engagement of different muscles, awakening stabilizers that are dormant when you tackle conventional roads.

As you adapt to the unpredictable winter landscape, you not only fortify your muscles but also lay the groundwork for enhanced strength and speed when you return to your familiar running paths. The extra effort required for navigating through snow and varying surfaces will increase the intensity of the workout and require extra concentration.

Build mental strength within serene landscapes

Venturing onto winter trails allows you to experience the perfect blend of mental rejuvenation and mental challenge. The serene beauty of snow-laden landscapes offers a visual retreat, allowing your mind to unwind away from the busy pace of regular life, while the challenges posed by thick snow and cold temperatures are opportunities for resilience training and increased mental fortitude.