Cool Runnings

Do Winter Jogging the Safe Way

Getting outside and going for a winter run is actually beneficial and Concordia’s Outdoor running club will tell you why. Photo Brandon Johnston

Cold and icy weather often makes you feel like just staying inside, but don’t let it keep you from your daily jog.

Some might think it’s dangerous to jog or run during the winter, but if practiced safely, the fresh air and exercise can be invigorating and enjoyable—even more than during summer.

“I find I get a lot more energy just from the cold,” says Sophie Choquette, president of the Concordia Outdoors running club. “The heat [from the summer] can really bring you down and dehydrate you.”

Choquette adds it’s important to check the weather before heading out for a jog this time of year.

“Obviously, what you wear is a huge difference [between winter and summer jogging],” said Choquette, who runs outdoors four or five times a week with the club. “Certain days you just can’t go because it’s way too cold, other days you just have to dress up very warmly.”

The temperature isn’t the only thing to be aware of. Montreal’s winters also bring a heavy dose of precipitation, something that’s difficult to counter with better equipment (have you ever tried running in boots?).

“As far as shoes go, you just try not to run through slush and through ice,” said Choquette. “So you just plan out your routes to be more on roads.”

Of course, there’s always the option of hitting the treadmill at your local gym for a good workout without the hassle of the cold, ice and snow. But as Choquette explains, jogging outside has its benefits.

“Some people don’t mind running 30 minutes just staring at the same thing, but for a lot of people, it’s really not enjoyable,” she said. “So [outdoor jogging] is just about seeing new scenery, and it’s a lot more social when you can run outside because you can run with a group of people.”

Concordia Outdoors organizes bi-weekly runs for students and, warm or cold, they leave their downtown office every Wednesday at 6 p.m. and Thursday at 2 p.m. for their regular eight to 10 kilometre runs. The club is open to anyone, no matter your skill level.