The Outdoor Athlete Winter Survival Guide
As the winter evenings draw in and the days grow shorter, it’s easy to be tempted by a cosy night in or a morning lie-in instead of your Outdoor Athlete session. But we’ve got you covered.
Here’s our Winter Survival Guide, packed with advice and a few words from Wayne to help you stay motivated, keep training smart, and make the most of the colder months.
🌿 Why Winter Training Works
We all know the benefits of outdoor fitness — it’s what keeps us coming back. But training outdoors through winter can actually supercharge your fitness, giving you an edge both physically and mentally.
Here’s why:
Boosts Your Immune System
When bugs and viruses are doing the rounds, regular outdoor exercise helps keep your immune system strong and ready to fight back.
Improves Cardiovascular Health
In cold conditions, your heart works harder to circulate blood, giving your cardiovascular system a natural boost and keeping it in top shape.
Lifts Your Mood
Outdoor exercise triggers those all-important feel-good hormones, helping to keep the winter blues at bay. Fresh air, movement, and a dose of daylight are the perfect combination to clear the head.
Burns More Calories
Colder temperatures push your body to work harder to stay warm, ramping up your metabolism and increasing calorie burn during every session.
🧤 Wayne’s Winter Training Tips
Whether you’re a seasoned Eastsider or facing your first winter in the park, the right kit makes all the difference. Here’s Wayne’s essential guide to staying warm, dry, and ready to train:
Hat, Gloves, and a Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
These are your winter essentials. Breathable waterproofs are ideal — they keep rain out but still let sweat escape. Sealskinz make excellent hats and gloves, and Decathlon offer affordable lightweight running jackets.
Trail Shoes and Waterproof Socks
A good pair of trail shoes are worth their weight in gold for grip and comfort. For waterproof socks, Sealskinz are again a top pick. For shoes, check out Innov8 or Salomon.
A Waterproof Bag (and a Liner)
Keep your phone, keys, and spare dry kit protected. Ortlieb make fantastic waterproof bags that will last for years. Always have something warm and dry to change into after your session — you’ll cool quickly once you stop moving.
💬 Wayne’s Final Words
“Layer up if you need to, and take things off as you warm up. Remember, hands, feet, and your head lose heat fastest.
When it’s dark, move swiftly but safely. If you can’t clearly see the ground in front of you, slow down — even if I’m shouting at you to go faster.
Walk out of the park together at the end of sessions. There’s safety in numbers, and it’s part of what makes Eastside what it is.
Most importantly, embrace the weather. There’s nothing better than finishing a session knowing you didn’t let the elements win.”
🔗 Useful Links
🧤 Sealskinz – Hats, Gloves & Socks
👟 Decathlon – Running Jackets & More
🥾 Trail Running Shoes – Inov-8 | Salomon
🎒 Waterproof Bags – Ortlieb