With the recent snowy blast, its put a hold on my running plan as such. The reps lane has been frozen and un-runable. This has opened the door to a few alternative runs out there. One client has even introduced me to snow golf… something I’m very keen to try….keep reading to find out more about it.
I also wanted to highlight a blog post by Andrew Gordon of The Running Shop on George Street. He wrote below a few years ago….see below for some great pointers.
It’s getting colder and the thought of getting the kit on and getting out for a run is getting harder and harder. The easy option of course is just to either stay tucked up in your cozy bed in the morning or settle down in front of the telly. Here’s some tips to help you keep motivated and keep you on track over the winter months.
1. Register for your next event. This is one which is close to my heart as I always feel like I have to have something which I’m aiming for which keeps me going when it would be much easier to stay in the warmth of a cozy house. There are still races which are happening through December and you can find the perfect event here on the runABCScotland events page. There are other good sites like Marathon Runners diary for keeping you up to speed on whats happening.
2.Be flexible and able to change up your routine. If it’s impractical to do so much running, then consider adding some more cross training sessions either in the pool or in the gym.
3. Run with a friend. Can be easier if you’ve got a running buddy where you can both act as motivator to each other, or consider joining a group or club, or keep an eye out for the Running Shop night runs where you can join like minded runners for an informal run through the winter months.4. Ensure you’ve the right gear. Having the correct footwear or clothing is essential to making it easier to keep the running going through the winter. Whether it’s base layers, thermal tights, hats and gloves, your local running shop (hmmm, where could that be? 😉 ) will I’m sure be happy to advise.
5. Prepare the night before. Generally, it’s been found that people who are morning exercisers have a greater chance of success than others. Getting the kit ready the night before can help you just get up and out the door before you realise what you’re doing!
6. Incentives. Plan rewards for your good work, whether it’s a meal out, massage session or link it to a weekend away for an event in the Spring.
Good luck!!
Snow Golf – Start running around the tee box and then to the green and run around the green ( Don’t tread on the green, respect the course) – normal courses are around 3-5km in distance and the terrain is beautiful. Each course will have a time for completion and you can try and beat your own time next time.
Yak Trax – A game changer for me. Helps to build confidence running on the ice. I tried a spike based grip but it hurt my foot so tried these an alternative and they rock.
Snow Field – the freshies are the best. The deeper the better. The compacted snow can sometimes be a little bit firmer and slidey but the fresh snow is a lot easier to grip on.
Team running – going in a group can be a great alternative to staying in bed. The sociable runs help to keep the pace down and the miles up.
As always, looking for your suggestions to beat the weather and resist temptation to say S -NO-w.
What are your alternative winter runs? How do you beat the winter blues? Snow doesn’t mean no!
Run Long and Prosper
James
Physio:run
