Today was supposed to be my first video blog, complete with exercises. Guys, it was bad. I mean, like, embarrassingly, horrifyingly BAD. I will try again tomorrow. I also didn’t get to make this amazingness tonight because the post office was a zoo. Damn. *sigh* Tomorrow is another day. Instead, let’s talk more about winter running!

I was sprinting up and down First Avenue on the very lovely 38th St. to 42nd St. hill this morning and loving every single minute of it. The Runner’s World Holiday Streak is alive and well with me! I thought about all the runners who have turned in their sneakers since having completed whatever race they ran this Fall and how sad I was for them that they’d not be experiencing the joy of running in the cold, crisp air of winter because they’re afraid of being cold. My New Yorkers feel me on this (and my Chicagoans even more!): winter running is AWESOME!

I plan on giving a step-by-step of how to prepare for the cold as the winter gets on, but for now let’s start with the basics. Accessories!

#1. Gloves!

Fancy-schmancy, high-tech little things!

These lululemon Run: Brisk gloves are perfect for right now. They’re light but give just the right amount of warmth until we dip into the freezing temperatures and have to bring out the big guns. Bonus: they have these awesome tech-y tabs on the thumb and forefinger so you can use all your gadgets without having to take off your gloves. So cool. They go fast, so look for them in your local store. The arctic run gloves are a warmer option that also have the tab-y things.

#2. Neck warmer (Is there a better name for this?)

No need for a zip-up with this little gem!

So, not all of my tops have a zip-up over the neck and I really like my neck to be warm when I’m out in the wintertime. Hello neck warmer! The drawstring allows me to tighten it over my neck so none of that cool East River breeze sends chills down my back. It’s also long enough to be pulled up over my mouth and nose for those REALLY cold runs. I got this last year from “Santa” from lululemon and haven’t seen another one since, but Under Armour makes these.

#3. A great hat

Mmmmm...toasty warm.

I don’t generally break out the hats until about mid-January. I’m a ear-warmer girl til then. But when I do, I bring out the big guns. This Under Armour beanie is lined with a moisture-wicking layer (because we all know what a sweaty beast I am) but then has a super-cute and super-warm knit top layer that has NEVER failed to keep my head toasty warm on even the coldest of runs. It’s awesome.

These three things will make or break your winter running season. Invest wisely in good, quality items and you will be that “crazy runner” blazing through the wintery streets and loving every minute of it.

Now go out and run!