RE: engine running in winter?
It's not really a good idea to fly alone anyway in case there is an accident. Get the other guy to use HIS ankles. This is ONE reason to join a club.
Build a run-in platform/bench that will restrain the plane at a workable height and leave it at the field for ALL to use. If you volunteer the labor, the club may pay for the wood.
Some fields have several of these to go along with the regular work tables.