If you took up jogging this past summer, then you might be dreading the falling temperatures. Nobody relishes running in the cold but, thankfully, you don’t have to quit your new exercise routine. 

Jogging during the fall and winter can be challenging at first. You’ll have to contend with wind, rain, snow, and freezing temperatures. If you’re not content with staying cooped up and relegating yourself to the treadmill, then here are some tips to help you brave the cold. 

Warm up before running out the door 

Getting a little warmed up is always a good idea before starting on a jog no matter the time of year, but it’s even more important to do when it’s colder outside. Cold temperatures can cause your muscles and joints to stiffen up, possibly leading to cramps while you run and soreness later on in the day. You can prevent these problems by doing some preparatory walking and stretching before you head out the door. 

Breathe through your nose 

One of the main reasons why many people find running in the cold so uncomfortable is that the cold air feels sharp and painful when it hits their lungs. Oftentimes, this is because they are breathing through their mouth. Breathing through your nose might not seem like it should make such a big difference but it does give the air some extra time to warm up before it reaches your lungs, making for a more pleasant jog. 

Cover your extremities 

To keep the biting cold at bay while you jog, you’ll want to cover the extremities which you normally exposed to the air, namely your fingers and ears. Invest in a quality pair of light gloves which will keep your fingers warm but won’t feel too bulky, and use a hat, ski cap, headband, or a pair of earmuffs to cover the sensitive cartilage of your ears. 

Layer your socks 

Don’t forget about the fact that the cold can make your toes quite numb as well, even if you are exercising. Numb toes are no fun and may force you to turn back home early. An easy way to keep your toes toasty while you jog is to simply layer your socks. Check the forecast before you head out and double (or triple!) up your socks accordingly. 

Don’t overdress 

While it’s important to dress warm enough when going for a jog in colder temperatures, it’s equally important not to overdress. Wearing too many layers may cause you to sweat, which in turn can give you a chill. Dress so that you will be comfortable once you start breaking a sweat, even if that means you’ll be slightly cooler when you start your jog. You’ll especially want to wear fewer layers if it’s sunny out. 

When done right, jogging in the fall and winter can be just as enjoyable as jogging in the spring and summer. As long as you’re well-prepared, then the crisp, invigorating air might push you to run even further.