During the winter, running becomes challenging. The drop in temperature and the dismal weather makes getting in the miles harder and less enticing. While some people may choose to hop on a treadmill, many runners prefer to stay outdoors. These loyal athletes find ways to make the experience as comfortable as possible. If you’re ready to run those miles in the cold, be sure to follow these six essential tips.

If you’re looking for some winter ideas to keep you in great shape, it’s important to invest in a pair of winter socks for men. There are lots of new styles available this year including ones that claim to protect your feet from the cold weather with insulating materials.

1. Invest in the Right Footwear

Running shoes supply needed support to conquer the hardness of the road or sidewalk. While most of them are built for basic endurance, they do not always work well in frigid temps. If you’re planning to tread through ice and snow, you deserve something with more traction, stability and dryness. Avoid wearing shoes with mostly mesh. The dampness is easily absorbed inside, getting your feet all wet. In addition, look at the shoe bases, seeking out a product designed to give you more hold in icy climates. The last thing you want is to slip and fall while out for your daily run.

While you’re shopping, pick up some socks that minimize water penetration. Even if your shoes get a bit wet, the extra layer could keep those toes from pruning up.

2. Consider How You Dress

Many runners think bundling up is the perfect solution to keeping the chill at bay; however, your body temperature increases by 10 to 20 degrees when you run. Therefore, what felt comfortable when you left the house could be too much for the run duration. Avoid peeling off layers by dressing in something that leaves you a bit chilly when you leave the house. While the brisque air hits you now, you are likely to feel better in the long haul.

Furthermore, many locations experience less daylight during winter months, so runners head out more in the dark. Bring a small flashlight so you can see the road, and dress in bright or fluorescent attire so drivers can see you coming.

3. Warm Up your Body

Get your blood flowing before you hit the cold air by completing warm-up exercises inside. The movement elevates your temperature levels, so the cold may not feel as intense when you step outside. You can run in place, perform stretches, do some yoga or jump rope. These activities increase circulation within the body and could help you acclimate to freezing temperatures.

Skip the coffee as it could dehydrate you; instead, look for health supplements like USANA Italy that optimize your energy levels. They could get you started sooner and faster, so you don’t feel the cold.

4. Motivate Yourself To Get It Done

Sometimes you may want to stay in bed or on the sofa. The cold isn’t as tempting as that spring or fall weather. Rewards work, though. Offer yourself something for the day if you head out and get that run done. Do you want to splurge on a special dinner? Are you interested in having dessert for the evening? Consider what encourages you, and allow yourself to enjoy the incentive when you are done.

5. Fight the Wind

The wind chill can be worse than the air temperature itself. When the wind hits you in the face, it can sting, making you feel uncomfortable and frustrated. Plan for it, and get it out of the way early. Run into the wind first. With the worst part out of the way, you may not suffer on the way back.

Cover up those exposed areas as well. Frozen fingers, ears and noses grow irritating. Keep them snug with accessories such as hats, gloves and nose guards.

6. Cool Down and Change Quickly

Stretch muscles out when you finish, but don’t dally in changing. The body doesn’t hold that temperature increase for too long; instead, it may quickly feel the chill again. The cold and sweat become uncomfortable and awkward. Shower and change you to feel content and restored.

When the winter months approach, don’t dread heading out for that run. Get a game plan together. Consider how you should dress, what motivates you and best practices for staying warm on the run.