The temperatures may have dropped, and there’s snow on the ground, but Buffalo’s runners are simply adding an extra layer or two to keep warm.

If you’re a fair-weather runner or total non-runner, don’t be scared off by the freezing temperatures. Running in the cold isn’t so bad—in fact, I prefer it. Yeah, maybe I sound a little nuts, but other runners agree that there are benefits to jogging in nippy conditions. Exercise and health experts agree that running in cold weather increases mental stimulation. 

There are quite a few running clubs around Western New York that offer free or affordable group runs that’ll get you used to jogging in cold climates. Fleet Feet, 2290 Delaware Ave., Buffalo, offers seasonal group runs and free Wednesday night runs; Checkers Athletic Club hosts running clubs for runners of all different levels; Southtowns Fitness, the gym to which I belong, also hosts a weekly running club for newbies to seasons racers.

For motivation to stay active in the winter months, consider signing up for a short race in the area. For me, there’s nothing like the pressure of having to run a few miles in front of a crowd of people that keeps me motivated to keep up the gym routine and occasionally go for a post-work run. Here are a few popular winter runs coming up, courtesy of BuffaloRunners.com:

Flurrious Forecast 2 Mile Fun Run - 2 miles, 9 a.m. Saturday, Delaware Park, Buffalo
Penguin Run - 5K, 11 a.m. Jan. 29,  Classics V Banquet Facility, 2425 Niagara Falls Blvd., Amherst
Lockport Y-10 - 10 miles/5 miles/relay, 10 a.m. Feb. 11, Lockport YMCA, 19 East Ave., Lockport
Canisius Chilly Challenge - 5K, noon Feb. 26, Canisius High School, 1180 Delaware Ave., Buffalo
Shamrock Run - 8K,  Old First Ward Community Center, 62 Republic St., Buffalo

Photo courtesy of Flickr / clarkmaxwell.