The choice between running and cycling in winter depends on several factors, including your personal preferences, weather conditions and your training goal. Very often, given the particularly short days, running can prove to be a valid substitute for cycling, but let’s see together some aspects to consider which can at least make the choice between one sporting practice and another weigh up.
Here are some points to consider:
1. Weather conditions: If the weather conditions in winter are particularly adverse, such as extreme cold, strong winds or snow, it may be safer and more practical to train with running.
2. Physical and energetic stress: Running tends to require more energetic effort than riding a bicycle. If saving energy is an important consideration for you, cycling may be a better choice. Consider that the calories burned with running are greater for the same amount of time spent training than with cycling.
3. Impact on joints: Running can have a greater impact on joints, especially if you run on hard surfaces. If you have joint problems, cycling may be a better choice.
4. Training variety: Switching between running and cycling can offer a variety of physical stimulation and prevent boredom. You can also choose based on your personal preferences and specific training needs. In winter you can alternate cycling with running. For example, in the evening, after work, running could be the best solution, both in terms of safety and the perceived cold and the time spent training.
5. Appropriate clothing: Both activities require adequate clothing to face the low winter temperatures. Make sure you dress appropriately to protect yourself from the cold and wind, regardless of the activity you choose. For cycling, clothing and equipment will cost more as they will have to resist the abundant wind due to higher speeds, while for running, the cost will be significantly lower. The accessories required will also be greater for cycling such as shoe covers, neck warmers, helmet pads, heavier gloves and possibly a pair of winter cycling shoes.
Overall, both activities offer health and fitness benefits, so the choice largely depends on your personal preferences and environmental conditions. If possible, you could also alternate between running and cycling to get the benefits of both activities.
