Easy Training Tips for Running in Winter Weather

Dec 14
11:34

2011

Tarah Meyer-Martin

Tarah Meyer-Martin

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Training in the winter isn’t easy, and as the snow and the ice creep up on you, it may be that you are already dreading what the inclement weather will do to your established routine. It is easy to let your training lapse during the winter months. Your favorite running trails are covered in snow, and ice makes the sidewalks hazardous. Even if you live in a warmer climate, the decrease in daylight means that whether you run in the morning or afternoon, you will probably be doing so in the dark.

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Training in the winter isn’t easy,Easy Training Tips for Running in Winter Weather Articles and as the snow and the ice creep up on you, it may be that you are already dreading what the inclement weather will do to your established routine. It is easy to let your training lapse during the winter months. Your favorite running trails are covered in snow, and ice makes the sidewalks hazardous. Even if you live in a warmer climate, the decrease in daylight means that whether you run in the morning or afternoon, you will probably be doing so in the dark.

There are solutions to getting over that winter weather hump and keeping your mind on your training. Think about the winter as a new challenge to your training, since you will have to adapt your program to fit new parameters. Running an easy loop around your favorite trails at the park won’t be possible, but you can do other things to keep your muscles limber and your body at peak condition. You need a winter running program that will motivate you to keep going, no matter how frightful the weather.

If you plan on continuing to run outdoors, keep in mind that safety should always be your focus. Make sure you have good shoes and proper attire, and don’t go out if the weather is dangerous. You must keep your personal safety at the forefront. That being said, blustery days shouldn’t slow you down. Find an indoor running track or invest in a treadmill so that you can keep up the pace on days when going out just isn’t an option.

Cross-training is an excellent option during the winter, because it allows you to keep your muscles at the ready while giving you new and different exercises to play with. If you belong to a local gym, it may be a great time to pick up lap-swimming or cycling. Some runners prefer to stay outdoors no matter what, though, and you don’t have to let cross-training be the exception to that preference. Try cross-country skiing or snow-shoeing as an alternative cardio activity. Whatever you do, remember that your body isn’t getting the most out of your cross-training if you take it easy. Make sure that you are getting your heart pumping and your blood flowing even if you aren’t running.

Don’t let the winter blues make you give up on all the progress you’ve made during the warmer months. There are so many ways you can make the cold weather work to your advantage while training. You can have a safe, productive winter training period without hassle or fuss.