Winter Running

If you are anything like me, the treadmill is not your friend. It takes icy roads and double digit sub-zero temps to keep me inside. Often for me that also means running in the dark. Whether it is pre-dawn before my girls wake up or 8 pm after they go to bed, there is no chance that the sun will aid in keeping me warm. So where is the joy in that? Believe me there is plenty.

The quiet, calmness of a winter morning is renewing and refreshing. More often than not the winds are calm and the stars are out. If the moon is bright and full you will find that with the snow reflecting back the light, it makes it almost as light out as an overcast day. It really is an amazing way to start the day. Even if you live in the city, the streets are quiet and traffic is almost non-existent. I have found that if you have your clothes ready the night before, get up the first time your alarm goes off, get dressed and out the door, you are warmed up before you realize how cold it actually is. Plus there is the added bonus of knowing the rest of the day won't get in the way of your workout. That applies all year long!

I do have a few tips to help make winter running more enjoyable.

1. If you run in the morning, make sure you drink a glass of water the night before. You won't need as much water during your winter runs as opposed to summer but you still want to make sure you are hydrated. You will still sweat!

2. Wear moisture wicking clothes. Anything that aids in keeping the moisture off your skin will keep you feeling warmer. I have read that wool is a natural wicking fiber and is obviously warm. I don't have any experience with that but it is worth looking into.

3. Run closer to home. This may make your runs a little more dull, but in the event that you get really cold you at least don't have miles to go before you can find some warmth.

4. Make sure you have covered as much skin as possible. A full face mask is great, especially one that you can pull the mouth and nose cover up and down to adjust for different temps. Be careful that the tips of your ears are covered. You won't notice how cold they are until its too late. You don't want frostbite.

5. Slow down. Most of us that are running in Wisconsin at this time of the year are training for spring races so there is plenty of time to work on speed. Now is the time to work on building your base up and working on your endurance. You won't be able to run at all if you are injured because of a fall.

6. Don't be afraid to run on snow. It's easy on the body, provides a great workout and uses some muscles and tendons that don't get as much work when you are just running on flat roads and side walks. Same type of benefits apply to trail running on different terrains.

7. As always, just enjoy yourself. Even though its cold, the fresh air will defiantly help beat those winter blues.

As much as I LOVE running outdoors, there are some benefits you can get from running on the treadmill. I will talk to that the next time I post.

Now get out there and be active!