There are lots of new runners out there on the roads these days as a result of the pandemic. People are looking to get fitter and healthier over the last few months… so some of you out there may never have gone running in winter before. With that in mind, it’s important to know what to expect, as it can be tougher going than in the summer.
First of all, you need to make sure you are dressing for the weather and the key to getting it right is layering. When running in the cold, your body will heat up quickly once you’re moving properly and you can regulate your temperature more effectively if you can add layers or take them off as required.
Layer up with running tights, a long-sleeve base layer shirt, running gloves, running socks and a windproof running jacket. Add more layers if you feel really cold, sometimes a fleecy number in that lot will really help. Getting the right socks is also important, too thick and it can squeeze your feet inside your shoes and that can seem to make things colder.
When it’s as cold as it has been these last few eeeks, it’s probably worth wearing a wooly hat or cap. A buff/snood (which also double up to cover your mouth so you’re not breathing over vulnerable walkers).
Also, reflective clothing is essential in darker weather – early mornings or later in the evenings as it gets dark so early. We’d also recommend you explore the huge choice of lighting solutions, ranging from head torches, light vests and even wooly hats with built in lights.
If you’re feeling cheap and have any unused rear bike lights hanging around, you can often find they come with a useful little clip that will attach to your belt line or pocket.
Don’t forget when you get home, to make sure you change out of your running gear immediately and wrap up warm, as your body will cool down quickly once you’ve finished.
Planning a proper weekly training schedule can also help you stick to your goals, especially in the new year when it can be hard to find time with the return to work after Christmas. Starting as early as you can in the morning is a good idea, before other commitments have to start taking priority.
And you may well struggle with motivation, especially when the weather isn’t particularly nice outside, so why not spend some time devising some running goals for next year. This will help to keep you training even when it’s cold and rainy, as you’ll want to be ready for the road once the weather starts to cheer up again.
Have you got any winter running tips of your own? We’d love to hear how you make it through to spring. And if you need any help putting together a running training plan, get in touch with Fix My Run today.
