It snowed in El Paso yesterday. I’m serious. Several inches of REAL snow.
Since I am a wimp, and I am in no way prepared for that kind of weather, I skipped my run. It would have been dangerous to run anyway. Visibility was practically zero for most of the afternoon during the actual storm part.
To make up for it, I went running today. There is still snow on the ground, but only on the grass/rocks we use as grass. The streets were fine by the time I got up. So, naturally, I figure it is a good time to make up the run I skipped yesterday.
Those of you from snowy climates are probably laughing at my ignorance.
Yes, the streets were snow free. But, the large portions of the sidewalks were as icy as a skating rink.
There I am, attempting to run up a hill that is covered in icy patches, looking like an idiot. I sure passing drivers were laughing at me slipping, attempted to carefully choose where to step (only to choose wrong), and scowling at the cold air.
I eventually made it home in one piece. Go figure that I manage to stay on my feet the entire run, but I fall going up the steps to my door…. Steps are tricky you know…
Runners from snowy climates: how to do you run outside in the winter without falling on your face?!? That is a very serious question because next winter I will be living in a snowy climate and I need to be prepared. Or, I am still contemplating moving south for the winters though. Like a bird.
celebrateeverymile.wordpress.com 
Not to be mean but this totally made me laugh. I live in Alberta (Canada) and run outside through the winter, although my cut off is -20/-25 celsius. If it goes below that, I typically move to the treadmill. It’s a law here that you have to shovel your sidewalk within 24 hours of a snowfall so for the most part, ice isn’t a problem. If the sidewalks are icy, I just run on the road (making sure I face traffic). If I can’t avoid the ice, it’s all about the smaller stride. I also have to be careful about when and where I run, because I tend to run in the evening on backroads but when it’s icy I only run if there’s light, either from the sun or on a well-lit road. Honestly, it’s strange at first but once you get used to it, running when most people would have chosen to stay home makes you feel pretty hardcore.
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Thank you SO MUCH for the tips! Those will certainly come in handy next year. I know I’m a wimp when it’s cold. I start complaining about the cold when the temps drop below 60*F. Sad, huh!?!
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I agree that once you live somewhere cold, you’ll get used to it. But for now, you’re a Texas girl, and you’re in good company skipping those chilly runs!
Here are the yaktrax things I was talking about: http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=yaxtrax&tag=mh0b-20&index=aps&hvadid=4964772017&ref=pd_sl_33ioexeqcg_e
I never ran with them so I can’t vouch for their effectiveness, but people were constantly suggesting I get them when we lived in Germany. I’d also suggest getting a balaclava (one of those face cover things). It makes you look like a robber, and it’s not cute, but it will keep your face warm!
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Thanks for the link! I will be looking into those for next year. The most annoying thing about trying to run when it’s cold outside is how long I stall before I actually go do it. Because, maybe it will be warmer/suck less in 5 minutes….
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I did love the occasional snow in El Paso, however I am loving the mild weather in Louisiana. 🙂
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