Well, here we are in the dead of winter, and I can’t believe what is going on in my life right now. I am a self-proclaimed summer girl (even though I’m in perimenopause) who was born in the summer, and enjoys everything about the heat of the sun. Now, I have a lived in the Midwest all my life, and the change of the seasons is beautiful to me, but my favorite season has always been summer. That is, until now, well just a little bit.
My walking journey has lead me to winter walks, and it’s something I thought I would never do. Although, I was walking in 2023, when winter hit I wasn’t out there unless it was somehow above 40°, which is rare. I may have managed a handful of days in November and December 2023 before I got back out there in February when the temps were above freezing. Well, fast-forward a year, and walking in below freezing temperatures is now my thing. It definitely takes some getting used to, but if you prepare yourself properly, you might find a cold weather walk much easier than you thought.
Getting outside when the temp is below 30° takes layers, and layers are your friend! I start each walk with a base layer. My base layer has three pieces, and each contains moisture wicking material because no matter how cold it is out there I will sweat, and once you get moving you might too. From there, I will add a second pair of pants (usually joggers) and a simple hoodie, along with a coat. My fuzzy sherpa provides a great layer of warmth, but any jacket will do. I prefer to be able to move comfortably, which is why joggers, leggings, and other thin layers are my go to pieces.
We all know the elements can vary outside in the Midwest winter. I’m always going to prefer my walking shoes when I can wear them, and that is the main thing that kept me indoors this winter. While I am on the hunt for a good boot that functions like a walking shoe, my go to sneakers have been good to me because I haven’t had to contend with a lot of snow. Once all the layers are on, and the finishing touches like gloves and hats are added, let’s not forget our sunscreen. Since it is cold, I actually put on moisturizer, and then I add sunscreen to my face and lips whether the sun is shining bright or not.
So, there you have it. I’m a believer now that I have pushed beyond my own threshold, and I believe with a little preparation and motivation, you might become a believer too. Are you ready to join me on a below freezing walk this winter?
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