Staying fit in the winter is hard. It's even harder when you live in a place where winter can be unrelentingly cold for upwards of nine months, but staying fit is so do-able. You just have to be motivated to find creative ways to do it. Working out inside in a pool, an indoor track, or just with weights is great. But, if you really want to go outside, here's five tips to help you do it safely and comfortably.

1. Find clear paved running paths.

Being on a college campus is great because sidewalks and roads get cleared faster here than just about anywhere else so students can get to class. We don't rely on the city to clear our paths which means there's a dedicated staff that makes sure everything is safe for students.

2. Stay warm in the wind.

Run into the wind during the first half of your run, and run with the wind at your back during the second half of the run. This is so important because if you get sweaty going out in the first half, the second half will be unbearably cold with the wind. It's also important to use Vaseline on exposed parts of your body like your face because it's naturally waterproof and windproof which can help keep your face from getting wind burned.

3. Keep your shoes dry (the right way).

Use waterproofing spray and when your shoes do get wet, put newspaper inside of them. The paper will suck up the moisture and will help your shoes keep their form. Never put your shoes in the dryer or the oven, it will shrink the material and lessen their shelf life. It's also important to note that as temperatures get colder, the soles of your shoes will become less cushion-y. This is because the cold makes the foam stiffer and places more pressure on the sole of your foot.

4. Hydrate like it's summer.

It might be cold and dry, but that doesn't mean your body isn't losing just as much fluid as it does in the summer. Your sweat dries much faster and you might not even realize you are sweating. This is why it's crucial that you re-hydrate after each run and stay hydrated throughout the rest of your day.

5. Bundle Up!

Everyone knows to dress in layers. But, did you know that mittens are better than gloves? They allow your fingers to keep each other warm and won't restrict blood flow. If it's really wet outside, stick latex gloves on inside your normal gloves or mittens. These will keep your hands nice and dry. For your feet, make sure your socks wick moisture. If they don't, the sweat will make your feet get cold. If you have gortex lined shoes, those are amazing. If not, find a shoe with less mesh, it will help keep the wind out. You can also duck tape the mesh if you're really out of options. And always make sure to wear reflective gear when you're running, both during the day and at night. But, if you're running during the day with a lots of snow, wear black with your reflective gear. It will help you be seen.

With these five tips, running outside should be more pleasurable and more safe. It's always important to listen to your body, because it knows itself best. Running when it's cold outside can be a major challenge, but if you prepare, it has some awesome rewards.