Your Lungs Might Burn When Running in the Cold, But It Isn't Generally Dangerous for Most People
Dry air and cold temps can make breathing feel like a struggle. This Boston-based run coach shares how to cope.
Some of my favorite runs have been during the dead of winter in my hometown, guided by Boston’s glittering city lights. I love the way the cool breeze feels on my face, how the crisp air makes my skin tingle, and how the chill gets me moving just to warm up. I like the sort of thinking I can do on quiet, empty streets. Plus, there’s nothing quite like finishing a hard run in the cold, walking into a warm apartment, and reaching for my favorite hot chocolate.
But the struggle to catch your breath when you get out there is real. Every year I hear about coughing fits and burning throats from runners trying to survive their first winter and vets who’ve run through 20 seasons of snow. Unless you live in a tropical climate, you too may have found yourself on the side of a road, trying to catch your breath, wondering if it’s even safe to be out at all.
Here’s the good news: Despite the discomfort you may feel, running in the cold isn’t dangerous. To figure out how to beat the burn, here’s a breakdown of what’s happening and my pro tips.
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