In the winter, going outside for a run always feels more like a chore than a privilege; from finding motivation to getting dressed to actually stepping outside, a lot of emotions and thoughts run through my mind, so I thought I’d share them with some funny GIFs.
1. Checking the weather – I’m sure most runners are like me, where they have at least three different weather apps on their phone to check the radar, hourly forecast and RealFeel temp. Being prepared for the conditions is important, and despite what your mother tells you, “just look out the window” will not cut it.
2. Realizing you’d rather do anything except run – When I see a negative number or the cloudy-snow icon on my weather apps, my warm bed and hot chocolate always sounds much more inviting. “One day won’t make a difference,” I tell myself.
3. Feeling guilty for being lazy – About two and a half minutes later, I remember the donut I had for breakfast and convince myself I have to go. Goodbye bed, I’ll miss you dearly.
4. Bundling up – The weather outside is frightful, so wearing multiple layers is important! However, it can be hard to stay warm without being the Abominable Snowman and barely being able to move. Regardless, I always overdress, and end up with a jacket around my waist five minutes into my run.
5. Walking outside – The minute I open the door when embarking on a winter run is a minute of instant regret; the wind is already whipping my hair around, the snow is blowing in my eyes and my nose is running. Discouraged, I consider going back inside and cuddling with my dog, but as I stare into the tundra I’m about to endure, I think “well, something is better than nothing.”
6. Taking the first few steps – Once I start running, and the wind gets even stronger, I get defensive of my own craziness and try to convince myself “it’s not that bad.” I use the judgmental looks from people in their toasty cars as motivation to keep going – they don’t know that I actually am miserable.
7. Hitting the first mile – My fingers and toes feel warm, I’ve found a good pace and my breathing is consistent; this is the first moment that I am actually convinced that running in a blizzard was a good idea! Go me!
8. Meeting the inevitable “close call” – The reason I’m a runner is because I don’t have enough coordination to do any other sport, but even running isn’t a given-success for me. Winter is the worst season for clumsy people, and I can never escape a run without nearly cracking my head open on ice.
9. Crossing the invisible finish line – When I get to my driveway, I feel unstoppable; I just overcame my laziness and conquered the cold, and felt great while doing it! Winter? This feels like spring!!! After taking off my sweaty clothes, warming up in the shower and blowing the three pounds of snot out of my nose, I feel like I can do anything. I love endorphins!
