Guest blog post: Winter Running Tips (Part One) by Leslie Robertson

Posted In: ChiRunning | Fitness | Running divider 4 Comments »

This is not Leslie!

How many of you are afraid of running in the winter?? Scared that you might slip and hurt yourself?  Or are you worried you will freeze in the frigid temperatures?  Think that you will have a hard time breathing in the cold air?  I used to think all of these AND I also used to assume that winter meant running indoors was the only option but when treadmill running got boring I quickly changed my mind!

For those of you who are still hesitant here are some tips to help you become better winter runners. And all you hardcore winter runners feel free to offer some of your tips and suggestions to the first timers!

1-      Find a friend to run with-less chance you will wimp out and it is even more fun than running alone.

2-      Experience the outdoors inexpensively – It is an amazing feeling to run in freshly fallen snow-it can be sublime-try it and you will know what I am talking about!  Plus it is a lot cheaper than skiing!

3-      Try shortening your stride or think ‘tall and fall’-hey this sounds a lot like ChiRunning! I am sure Eric can give you more information on this topic.  With a shorter stride, your feet hit the ground with less angle, and consequently less pressure to slide out from under you (therefore no slipping!) so less chance for injury and you will have better running form running this way.

4-      Dress warm-think LAYERS as you will warm up once you start running.  Also make sure to cover your head, ears, neck and hands as well.  Your feet will get cold and wet too so make sure you have good socks that are warm but wick away the moisture (acrylic, CoolMax or wool are best).

5-      Wear sunglasses-The glare from snow can cause be hard on the eyes, so wear sunglasses (polarized lenses are best) to avoid this problem.

Check out tomorrow’s post for tips 6-10!

Leslie Robertson is a CANFITPRO certified personal trainer who has been training and inspiring people from various fitness backgrounds and all ages for over 3 years. She is launching her own personal training business “GET FIT WITH LES” in January 2012.  For more information about Leslie check out her blog at getfitwithles.com or send her an email at [email protected]

 

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