Tips for a successful run streak during winter

When I set out to get 50 miles in this month and run/walk at least one mile each day this month, I clearly did not take into account that it would probably snow at least once. And when forecasters were calling for about 2 inches of snow, I ignored them. I also blew off their forecasts when it shifted to 4-6 inches of snow. 

Until that Saturday morning. 

On Saturday, I really wanted to get my mileage in, but I also knew I wouldn’t be driving anywhere for the next couple of days. I don’t have a treadmill and the gym was out of the question until we thawed out. So I did what any crazy runner would do – I put my snow boots on and went traipsing through the neighborhood. 

I did the same thing Sunday and the temps were even colder. I managed almost 2 miles walking each day. On Monday, things were beginning to thaw, but there was still a good amount of ice on the road, so I walked rather than run. 

By Tuesday I was back in the treadmill game. 

I’m more than 3 weeks into this streak and I’ve heard it takes 21 days to make a habit. This is definitely becoming a fun habit. 

Thinking about getting into your own mile-a-day routine? I have a few tips that might help. 

1. Commit. Just know you’re going to do at LEAST one mile. Write it out in your planner or schedule it in your digital calendar. 
2. Do it early. The longer I lounged around my house, the less likely I was going to go for a walk. 
3. Be intentional. I wear a Fitbit, so my steps are converted miles. Those miles are not being counted towards my run streak or total number of miles I’m completing in a month. Set out for at least a mile run/walk for exercise – not just the back and forth to the bathroom. 
4. Have a back-up plan. I had the gym written in my planner each day, but the days I couldn’t get to a gym, I made sure my husband held me accountable and knew my intentions of getting my exercise in. Someone had to stay with the kids, and we took turns. 
5. Include the family. Yes, I prefer to work out alone or run with a friend. Some weekends, though, I want to do things with my family, so why not go on a long walk or run, or have my son tag along with his bike? We can all benefit. 

My month is almost over and I’m confident I’ll finish out this goal and continue it into February. How are you doing with your fitness goals?