It is that time of the year when day light is hard to come by when training but you still have to get out there and do it. You really need to put some thought into your route, clothing and expectations. Here are some tips to make sure you are ready for winter running.
When I talk about lighting up I don’t mean just a headlamp but also the clothing you are wearing. Even if you are running on footpaths you should make sure you are seen. It is important to wear Hi VIZ clothing such as a vest and flashing lights. ASICS also have great reflective winter kit which means everyone will see you as you go out and enjoy your run.
Layer up
Weather is going to be very changeable over the coming months so you need to be prepared for all conditions. When you get your kit ready make sure you know what it is going to be like outside. The last thing you want to be is too cold or even too hot. When the weather gets colder I usually wear a few light layers so when I’m starting out I’m not too cold and as the session goes on I can take off the layers as I warm up. Its good to have a hat and gloves ready as well. I always find I enjoy my run more when I can feel my fingers. During cool down it is important to make sure you keep warm and put back on the layers as needed.
Warm up
Warming up should be part of every session you do but that isn’t always the case. You could be short on time and you want to get a session done or maybe it is a light session so you are taking it easy. But when it comes to winter it is extra important that you make sure you are well warmed up. The last thing you want to do is go straight into a tough session cold. Take an extra few mins to loosen out and get your body ready for what is to come. Some jogging, dynamic stretching and of course layer up.
Be careful
During the summer months you have a lot more options where you can run. When it comes to winter you need to think about your route. Try find somewhere that is lit up and safe to run on. A well lit area will mean you are seen but you can also see clearly where you are going. The last thing you want to do is trip over a cracked pavement or debris on the road which could mean your winter training is spent nursing an injury rather than enjoying your training. Maybe find a track, a walkway or a city route where there are lots of footpaths and choice. Watch out for leaves on the paths and wear the appropriate shoes so you don’t slip. During winter months you may have to alter your run due to flooded paths or icy conditions so have a Plan B just in case. Always listen to weather warnings, if its not safe to go out there will always be another day to get your run done.
Find a race
Just because its winter it doesn’t mean you don’t have to race. There are less races out there but to keep things fresh look out for local races that are on over the weekends. There are plenty of Parkruns around the country that could break up a training block on a Saturday morning and can even be incorporated it into your session.
Enjoy it
But the most important thing is to go out and enjoy yourself. It may be hard to get out of bed when the alarm goes off and its raining outside or you sit down on the couch before your evening run and get comfortable but you will look back on your winter running and remember the tough sessions in the cold, wet and windy weather and know it was all worthwhile. Why not bring a training partner out with you. It will not only make your run more enjoyable but will also mean you are less likely to stay on the couch!