This week, we hit a new high in Boston for amount of snowfall the week before Christmas. It’s rare we have a white Christmas so I’m afraid of what is in store the rest of the season. While I dread the cold, I would rather run outside over a treadmill any day. After investing in some good gear, my perception of winter workouts changed for the better into something enjoyable.

The essentials:

• Gloves, preferably with a special thumb and index finger to use your iPhone. I love these by New Balance ($30),  and these mittens by Saucony ($50).
• Headband or hat. This headband seen above has little slits for wearing sunglasses near the ears and cost me just $15. Yes I bought this just last week because I lost my Nike hat last season that I bought 4 years ago!
• Compression Pants. I wear CW-X that are lined with fleece. They are ridiculously warm and keep the oxygen flowing in my legs for long runs. If it’s really cold out, you can wear regular long spandex underneath a loose pair like these adidas Climawarm cold weather fleece pants.
• For on top, I layer so that depending on the weather I can remove them as need be. I start with a tank top, add a long sleeve moisture wicking layer and then a vest, pull over, jacket or combination.
• Opt for layers that wick moisture away from body so you stay dry and warm. I love when they are lined with fleece and have a high neck line. If you run early or late at night, you’ll want to invest in high visibility colored gear. You can learn more about high vis gear in my Hassle-Free Holiday Outdoor Workout Tips video below.

Some of my viewers also suggest wearing a gaiter around their neck and mouth since the cold weather hurts their lungs.

Watch the video as well to enter a contest sponsored by the makers of Tylenol that rewards your Holiday Hero.

What To Wear Working Out in Cold Weather