5 Hacks For A Smooth Transition From Running Indoors To Running Outdoors

The transition from winter to spring weather is a welcome one, but it requires changes to routines--especially when it comes to movement. Tom Myers is a trainer at New York Health & Racquet Club, one of the city's oldest gyms, and one that knows how to keep its members fit whether the snow is falling or the sun is shining with a unique blend of indoor and outdoor activities. For a city that can experience longer periods of cold, winter weather, navigating outdoor terrain at the first sight of spring can be tricky, especially when your body is used to indoor conditions. Here's how to transition from the treadmill to the pavement and maintaining your workout routine with the new season.

You may want to consider changing up the shoes you've been wearing on the treadmill all winter long for a more season-appropriate option. According to Myers, the difference between a smooth run and one that can trigger discomfort or injury all boils down to your choice of footwear. "There is a large difference in resistance; the belt moves your legs for you on a treadmill, but when you are out in the open, all the work will be on you. Not to mention the uneven terrain, rocks, and tree roots that trail-running shoes are designed to grip. They also spread the weight of impact, which less durable sidewalk trainers won’t do."

Either way, the benefits of vitamin D are easily overturned if we forget to protect our skin with SPF, he reiterates. "Sun damage to the skin can happen so fast; don't prioritize fitness without first making sure you aren’t jeopardizing health down the line. SPF 35+ and a hat are a must, even on a hazy day.

Winter months invite a period of dryness that can easily stretch into the first couple of days and weeks into spring. During this transition, doubling up on hydration is crucial when taking your sweat. "Increased outdoor temps mean you will be sweating more to stay cool. Fluid requirements can double during recovery and even a dip of just 2 percent of your water means you are dehydrated," explains Myers. "A thirsty muscle will be a cramping muscle, and no one wants that."

And if you are working out in the heat, don't forget to warm up! Don't try to superhero your most difficult workout for the first time training outside this season. He suggests incremental changes when you first transition outside. "Start with your intervals, not your 10-miler. It can take more than two weeks to acclimate to a hotter climate, maybe even longer if you're used to a climate-controlled gym." It's easy to get caught up with our results instead of our efforts, in which case, Myers reminds us to keep things in perspective when it comes to your pace.

If you're on the hunt for a new workout, check out this circuit training 101 guide for some inspiration.