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Winter runners find community in the cold

BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – As the sun goes down and temperatures drop, a hardcore group of Vermonters lace up their sneakers on Pine Street to hit the pavement – or snow.

A tear trickles down Rachel Buel’s cheek as she readies for a run. It’s a mere 20 degrees and feels like 6 degrees – but it’s Thursday, and that means she’s on the move.

“It’s hard when it’s dark and it’s cold in the evening, so having a little bit of that social interaction, meeting new folks, that’s what keeps me coming back,” said Buel.

Buel is part of a Burlington-based Long Trail Running Club.

Rain or snow, they’ve never canceled a run, egging each other on every week to keep up with training despite the chill. Keeping up through winter is a rare feat: a national poll found 56% of US adults are less active in the winter.

One runner says the community aspect helped her get over that hurdle.

“Everyone’s really friendly, and I got motivated to run, you know, in conditions I usually would not be running,” said Sanela Smaka.

The weekly meetups do wonders for mental health, too. Studies show exercising during the winter, especially in the morning for bright light benefits, can combat seasonal depression symptoms.

Many long trail members say the movement – and people they meet along the way – make the winter feel a little brighter.

“I have made friends, you know, twelve years ago that are still dear friends today,” said Chelsea Cary.

To stay safe, experts recommend skipping a run if temperatures are below zero degrees or if trails are especially slippery.

When conditions are right, Buel always wears a reflective vest and headlamp for safety, sneakers with appropriate traction, and wicking layers that keep you warm but not hot.

“If you feel like you’ve kind of got to huddle to stay warm, that’s a good sign that you won’t overheat on your run,” said Buel.

If you’re feeling up to the challenge, check out other winter running groups like Green Mountain Athletic Association or Upper Valley Running Club.

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