Forget your delusions of grandeur about hitting a new PR today, Markham. It's frigid out there, and frankly, Mother Nature isn't here to coddle your cardio goals.
- Arctic Air Attack: At a crisp -8°C, it's less "invigorating winter run" and more "frostbite waiting to happen." Environment Canada's been warning about sustained sub-zero temperatures and wind chills that can make it feel like -25°C to -35°C across Southern Ontario recently, so don't be a hero. Your lungs aren't going to thank you for inhaling that dry, icy air, and your joints will be stiffer than a week-old baguette.
- Slippery Surfaces Stick Around: While the City of Markham announced on February 25 that the "Significant Weather Event" from February 17 due to snow and freezing rain is officially over, that doesn't mean the ice magically evaporated. Expect sidewalks, unplowed pathways, and especially trails around places like Toogood Pond to be treacherous with lingering ice and packed snow. One bad step and you'll be calling me for physiotherapy, not a high-five. The City of Markham itself has advised residents to stay off ponds and waterways because ice is unpredictable.
- Moderate Air Quality (with a side of Ozone): Your local AQI is clocking in at 75, with Ozone as the dominant pollutant. It's not terrible, but it's not exactly fresh mountain air either. Combined with the biting cold, it's just another reason your lungs might decide to protest if you push too hard.
The Cold, Hard Truth About Cold Workouts
Look, I get it. We're runners. We like to think we're invincible. But pushing through extreme cold just makes you stupid, not strong. Your muscles are less pliable in the cold, increasing your risk of strains, pulls, and general grumpiness. Your respiratory system works overtime to warm and humidify the air you're breathing, and frankly, it's not built for sustained abuse in these conditions.
Danger: Frostbite & Hypothermia. Exposed skin can get frostbitten in minutes in these temperatures, especially with wind chill. Cover every inch: face, ears, hands, and feet. Layer up like you're going to the North Pole, even if you're just doing laps around your block. Ignoring the warnings is a fast track to serious medical trouble.
Caution: Icy Footing is Your Enemy. Even if the main roads look clear, sidewalks and multi-use paths, particularly in shaded areas or around parks like Toogood Pond, will likely have black ice or slick, packed snow. Don't assume. Wear appropriate footwear with aggressive tread, or better yet, break out the Yaktrax. Slow your pace and watch every step. A broken wrist or ankle will set you back a lot longer than missing one outdoor run.
Alternatives to Freezing Your Assets Off
So, what's a dedicated Markham athlete to do? Opt for the indoor options today, smarty pants. Hit the gym, find a local indoor track, or crank out a killer bodyweight session in your living room. There's no shame in adapting to the conditions; it's called being smart. Save the heroics for race day, when it's hopefully not trying to kill you.
Pro Tip: Warm Up Like You Mean It (Indoors). If you absolutely must step outside, do your entire warm-up indoors first. Get your blood flowing and muscles primed before exposing them to the elements. Static stretching in the cold is a recipe for injury. Dynamic movements, my friends, dynamic movements.
Stay safe, stay warm, and don't make me add your name to my long list of "told you so" patients.
Data grounded with Environment Canada, City of Markham, and other local weather services from February 26, 2026.