" I want to share my journey of embracing the Winter Chill in 2025—a challenge I once thought was impossible. Along the way, I learned three powerful lessons that transformed not just my running, but my mindset. "
Running in winter was never on my radar. My routine revolved around the warm embrace of spring, the sunny days of summer, and the colorful leaves of fall. Winter? It is too icy and risky. Every year, I paused my runs, convincing myself that staying safe was better than braving the cold.
The alternative way to run during winter is on the treadmill, but I could never get used to it. Running without moving felt unnatural, and I always worried about slipping. Moreover, I was missing the joy and freedom of running outdoors. Each spring, I restarted my running journey, chasing the pace I had worked hard to build the year before. My 5K finish times hovered around 30 to 32 minutes. Winter running was not only daunting, but it also stayed in my mind as a mystery.
That changed in September 2024 when I joined the Finger Lakes Running Club (FLRC). Indoor training at Barton Hall introduced me to the possibility of running year-round. When I first read about the Winter Chill 5K Series in January, I thought, “Who will run in the coldest month (January) of the year? Not me, that’s crazy!”
I talked to the FLRC group about the winter running. Most of them in the FLRC are planning to run. My thoughts changed a little bit, “Why not I give it a try?” As a New Year’s motivation—I signed up for the series just a day before the first race almost after 7 p.m. on 1/3/2025. Finally, I decided to embrace the challenge.
Winter Chill 5K #1: Overdressed and Overwhelmed
The first race was a learning curve. I bundled up in heavy layers, preparing for what I imagined would be bone-chilling cold. Within the first mile, I realized my mistake. My layers were too heavy, sweat dripped down my face, and my jackets felt like a weighted vest.
By the 2-mile mark, I unzipped the layers and removed my gloves while trying to keep pace. My phone swung awkwardly in my pocket, throwing me off balance. At 2.5 miles, I shed most of my gear and left it on a bench, determined to finish light and free.
Winter Chill 5K #2: Battling the Wind
For the second race, I came better prepared—fewer layers, no unnecessary bulk. However, I forgot one crucial gear: a Balaclava. The chill wind made each breath sharp and cold, I doubted, a moment, if I could push through, but eventually as my body warmed up and that was no longer a concern at all.
I also nervous about slipping on snow or ice, especially when I saw others wearing spiked soles. Thankfully, the trail wasn’t icy or slick. I finished the race strong, feeling more confident about my ability to adapt.
Winter Chill 5K #3: The Late Start
The third race began with a flurry of panic. I arrived two minutes late, missing the starting whistle. As I hit the trail, I could see the last runner far ahead. My only goal was to catch up.
The adrenaline of being a latecomer pushed me to run faster than usual. Although I started at a disadvantage, I eventually found my rhythm and settled into the race. It wasn’t my best time, but it was an electrifying experience.
Winter Chill 5K #4: Finding My Groove
By the final race, I felt like I had cracked the code for winter running. I wore just two lightweight jackets, zipped for convenience, and added a balaclava to shield myself from the wind. I knew exactly when to remove my layers, avoiding the mistakes of the earlier races.
The conditions were challenging—18 mph winds and 35°F temperatures—but I felt prepared and confident. With no distractions, I focused on my pace and crossed the finish line with my best time.
Overall, the FLRC group is so supportive, encouraging, and motivating one another. RUN COLD, RUN HAPPY!!
Three Lessons Learned
Master Your Gear
Winter running is all about dressing smart. Too many layers weigh you down, while too few leave you vulnerable to the cold. Lightweight, breathable layers that you can easily unzip or remove are key. Accessories like gloves and balaclava are lifesavers against biting winds.
Trust Your Preparation
Before the Winter Chill Series, I doubted my ability to run in snowy conditions. However, consistent training with the group at Barton Hall built my confidence. Overcoming the fear of slipping and learning to trust my preparation made a huge difference.
Consistency is Everything
The biggest takeaway from this experience was the power of consistency. Running regularly, even in challenging conditions, helped me improve my pace and endurance. By sticking to the routine, I transformed winter running from an impossible challenge into an achievable goal.
Winter running once felt impossible in winter, a challenge far beyond my reach. Today, it stands as a badge of perseverance and growth that I proudly carry forward. The icy winds and freezing temperatures that once intimidated me have become symbols of resilience, a testament to my ability to rise above fear and discomfort.
If I can conquer the harsh grip of winter, what other challenges might I overcome? I can embrace the unknown, chase growth, and move forward—one determined step at a time.