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Cold Weather Running Tips
This is a guest blog post from Betsy Moats, owner of the health and fitness blog The Everyday Warrior.
Spring marks the unofficial start of running season in Michigan, but you don’t want to wait until then to start running—especially if you are planning on participating in some spring races! Spring racers are built in the winter, and there is no reason to hold off on running just because of the cold and snow.
Here are some helpful tips to keep you running during the winter so that you will be as prepared as possible when you toe the starting line this spring:
Invest in high quality running gear
Running gear can be expensive, but investing in a few high quality pieces that will protect you from the elements will go a long way in encouraging you to brave the winter weather and ensure that you will keep running for many winters to come.
Safety first
Safety while running should always be a top priority no matter what season it is, but extra care should be taken during the winter months. You should ensure that the route you are planning to run is in fact runnable. Keep an eye out for ice, stay clear of areas of deep snow and know when to admit that the conditions are just not conducive to running outdoors.
As with every season, you should run in an area that you are familiar with, carry identification and let someone know of your whereabouts in case of an emergency.
Learn to love the treadmill
There will be times when the weather will force you to turn to the treadmill in order to get your training done. Embrace it. If you are determined to loathe it, you will be miserable and you will be more likely to throw in the towel. Instead, consider your treadmill time as an investment in your mental toughness, which will certainly come in handy later during your spring races.
Incorporate cross training into your training schedule
A good training program should consist of running and cross training. Cross training makes you a more well-rounded runner and ensures you are working areas of your body that running doesn’t. You can also save your cross training days for the days of the week that the weather isn’t as conducive to running outside.
Hydrate
Everyone knows that hydration is important when it is warm outside, but it is just as important when it is cold outside too! Make sure to hydrate before, during and after your runs with Absopure water!
Have fun
Above all else, running should be fun! Try running with a friend, find a running group to train with or just get out there and embrace your inner child.
If you follow these tips, adopt a positive attitude and follow an appropriate training program for your fitness level, I am confident that you will approach the spring running season ready to go the distance!
Betsy Moats is a Metro Detroit area runner that has a penchant for trail runs and obstacle course races. In addition to her running obsession she is also a mother, a fashion fiend, a country music lover and a blogger. You can connect with her on her health and fitness blog, The Everyday Warrior, where she inspires her readers to live a healthy, fit and active life.
