Running slower in the cold

Training Advice/Discussion General

5 years ago 01/17/2019 7:35am EST

It's obvious that running in very cold temperatures takes more energy than running in 50-60 degree temps, but I was wondering how much of the extra energy needed to keep the same pace is attributed to the cold temps versus the added layers you're wearing.

I ran a tempo this morning before the sun came up in NYC, the wind chill was probably something like 20 degrees. I had 3 long sleeve layers on, a hoodie, gloves, and running pants on. All this clothing obviously weighs more than a singlet and shorts. Was just curious as if this topic had been discussed.

Thoughts?

5 years ago 01/17/2019 7:58am EST

re: themexijew

If you're looking at details like this you are not really serious about running.

5 years ago 01/17/2019 8:07am EST

re: themexijew

For each pound of clothing, you can use 2 seconds per mile as a rough rule of thumb for the effect.

5 years ago 01/17/2019 9:53am EST

re: themexijew

themexijew wrote:
It's obvious that running in very cold temperatures takes more energy than running in 50-60 degree temps, but I was wondering how much of the extra energy needed to keep the same pace is attributed to the cold temps versus the added layers you're wearing.
I ran a tempo this morning before the sun came up in NYC, the wind chill was probably something like 20 degrees. I had 3 long sleeve layers on, a hoodie, gloves, and running pants on. All this clothing obviously weighs more than a singlet and shorts. Was just curious as if this topic had been discussed.
Thoughts?

I always wondered about this- I like the 2 second per mile rule. But even a 5k in running shorts and long sleeve t-shirt in say sub 20*- how much faster would you be in warmer conditions?

It takes more energy to run in the cold.

5 years ago 01/17/2019 10:40am EST

re: themexijew

themexijew wrote:
It's obvious that running in very cold temperatures takes more energy than running in 50-60 degree temps, but I was wondering how much of the extra energy needed to keep the same pace is attributed to the cold temps versus the added layers you're wearing.
I ran a tempo this morning before the sun came up in NYC, the wind chill was probably something like 20 degrees. I had 3 long sleeve layers on, a hoodie, gloves, and running pants on. All this clothing obviously weighs more than a singlet and shorts. Was just curious as if this topic had been discussed.
Thoughts?

I wore a hat, one long sleeve, a running vest, thermal tights, and gloves in -10F windchill last night. My 400 repeats were just as fast as usual (which is slow compared to all you Galen Rupps).

You're just a wimpy baby.

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