By Charlotte Horne
Winter in Australia doesn't always mean snow and frostbite - but it does mean chilly mornings, brisk breezes and the kind of weather that makes your doona feel like a trap. But here's the thing: winter is actually one of the best times to train. The air is fresh, the trails are quieter, and your mental toughness? About to level up.
With the right layers, a steaming thermos and your favourite poddy in your ears, training through winter can feel energising, empowering and surprisingly enjoyable. Let's turn the cooler months into your Coastrek training superpower with our ultimate winter toolkit to keep your body moving, soul smiling and feet trekking!
Layer Up, Buttercup
Winter walking = strategic layering. Your goal? Stay warm, stay dry (and stay fabulous, obviously). We've got you covered with the perfect hiking winter wardrobe:
- Base layer: Thermal, sweat-wicking fabric to keep you dry (cotton is cancelled).
- Mid-layer: A fleece or merino wool jumper to trap the heat.
- Outer layer: A waterproof, windproof shell for max protection.
- Accessories: Beanie, gloves, buff and thermal socks are your winter ride-or-dies.
- Footwear: Waterproof boots or trail runners with grippy soles = game changers.
Hot tip: Keep a spare pair of socks in your backpack. Cold, wet feet are a vibe killer.
Cold Weather = Mental Toughness Goldmine
Training in winter isn’t just good for your body - it’s a total flex for your mindset.
- Chilly weather gives your heart and lungs an extra workout (without the summer sweat-fest).
- Pushing through windy, wild conditions builds grit - the kind that gets you through those last few kms on Event Day.
- You’ll feel like an absolute legend afterwards. Endorphins combined with smugness is an elite combo.
- And the best part? You’ll be ready for anything the weather throws at you when it really counts.
Winter doesn’t just test your limits - it helps you raise them.
Snacks That Warm Your Soul (and Fuel Your Legs)
When the temperature drops, your body works harder to stay warm – which means you’ll need a little extra fuel to keep those legs moving and spirits high. The good news? Winter snacks are the best kind. Think hearty, nourishing, soul-warming goodness that are easy to pack and even easier to love. Here are some of our faves:
- A thermos of Di’s famous hot cacao, chai, miso soup or bone broth = aka – heaven in a cup.
- Our Wild Women Gluten Free Bliss Bites – cosy, chewy and full of slow-burn fuel.
- Overnight oats - Yum! Say no more!
- The Ultimate Hiking Snack: Scroggin! – A DIY trail mix, think crunchy, chocolatey, melt-in-your-mouth type snack.
- Mini savoury muffins with eggs, cheese and veg.
- Or keep it classic, a banana and nut butter is always a win.
And don’t forget the water! Hydration matters just as much in winter, even if you’re not dripping with sweat. We love a hydrated queen!
Your Hiking Hype Team: Podcasts, Playlists and Presence
Although we’re all about walking in a T.E.A.M… sometimes it’s not always possible. So, hello podcasts and bangin’ playlists. Here are our top picks to get in your ears, stat.
- How To Fail with Elizabeth Day – Explore the power of failure through inspiring interviews.
- Mindfully – Short and sweet episodes that inspire you to live more mindfully, plus some gorgeous, glorious meditations.
- The Imperfects Podcast – Chats with some of Australia’s most inspiring humans about how perfectly imperfect we all are.
- Claiming your Confidence – Katrina Blowers interviews high achievers on how they’ve built (or rebuilt) their confidence.
- You’re Wrong About – Two smart, funny journos dive into misunderstood moments in history. You’ll laugh and learn.
How to Stay Motivated When It’s Cold AF
Let’s not sugarcoat it – some winter days feel tough. But with the right mindset and a few sneaky tricks, you can keep that momentum rolling.- Start indoors: A few star jumps, bodyweight squats or a cheeky lounge room dance party will warm you right up.
- Set micro goals: Weekly targets or checklists keep things doable and satisfying.
- Train with your crew: Even one accountability buddy makes a huge difference.
- Reward yourself: Coffee, a hot shower, an epic post-hike brunch – treat yourself!
- Visualise the finish line: You, crossing it strong, smiling, and feeling like an absolute rockstar.

You Were Made For This!
Winter training isn’t about being extreme – it’s about showing up for yourself (and your besties!) when it matters most. It’s about building strength, confidence and that steady, feel good momentum so you’re ready to shine on Event Day.
You’ve got the gear. You’ve got the girl gang. Now it’s time to lace up, layer up and keep moving.
Because winter doesn’t slow us down – and neither do you!
Register for Coastrek and join the adventure today.