Cold Weather Makes Me Run Faster

Today was cold.  Jim suggested that I workout on the elliptical.  I wanted to go outside.

Today my plan was to run the Rock Hollow Trail.  The trail was in good condition except for the bridges which were ice covered.  I ran the trail and carefully navigated the bridges.  The temperature was 17 degrees.  On my legs I had Patagonia capilene tights with warm fleece tights over them.  Then on top I had a wool base layer, a second wool top and a light jacket.  I wore my Smartwool beanie and warmest Smartwool socks.  I wore Smartwool glove liners with fleece gloves over them.  When I got out of my car the wind was blowing and I was freezing as I was swinging my legs for warm up.  Once I started running I was very comfortable.  I had a buff around my neck which I pulled up over my mouth at first but then pulled back down.

About half way down the hill I had an urgent need for a bathroom.  I was going to run to the port-a-potties at the Al Foster trailhead but I didn't think I had time.  I hiked off the path and squatted behind a big tree.  Snow makes good toilet paper.

I ran fast because it was cold and I could get it over with quicker.  As I was running back up the hill it was snowing.  I really like running in the snow.  It is beautiful.  The snow started sticking which was making the trail a little slippery.  Last mile I slowed down to keep on my feet. 

I saw three people with dogs.  Two of the dogs had sweaters on.  I saw one bicycle rider.  Besides that I had the trail to myself.

It was a good run.