5 good things about winter running

As the nights draw ever darker and I get buried deeper under increasing layers of clothing it is time to cheer up by reminding myself of all the good things about running in the winter.
1. There's no need to worry about smothering yourself in suncream which you then sweat off anyway- your red cheeks come from a healthy glow, instead of a cancer-causing, wrinkle-forming toasting.
2. There is nothing like the quiet stillness of an early morning run in the winter, when you have the world to yourself . And extra smug-points from being the only one defying the temptation to stay snuggled in bed.
3. A run gets you warmed up for the rest of the day, saving on energy costs.
4. You get to dig out the reflective running gear for a cool 80s look. And you can wear whatever other rubbish you like along with it as no one can see you properly anyway. Winter runs are one of the only times you can wear a balaclava around a city, and not be mistaken for a comic book bank robber.
5. Steaming mugs of hot chocolate are brilliant recovery drinks containing all the essential ingredients: milk for protein, cocoa fors antioxidants and vitamins and minerals, its low in fat (provided you skip the whipped cream), and to top it off research has shown that chocolate releases endorphins simillar to a 'runner's high' so you get a double-buzz and feel even better for continuing to run despite the weather.