Winter Running

Runners generally work out all year, through all seasons and extremes of weather.  Motivations vary; some train for competition, others to finish a long race such as a marathon or ultramarathons, some for fitness and others who may not have a clearly defined goal other than enjoyment. 

Here are some ideas you may want to consider when running outside in the Midwestern climate this winter:

1)  Surface:  Choose surfaces that have been cleared (plowed & salted).  Packed snow can also provide a good surface with adequate traction.  Grass can sometimes be a firm surface following ice storms.
2)  Try to run into the wind at the beginning and finish with the wind at your back.  Running with the wind at first means you may have wet, sweaty clothes when the wind chill hits you.
3)  Be flexible.  If the weather is not suitable, reschedule your run and do whatever alternate workout facilities and conditions allow.
4)  Dress properly:  Wear layers.  This allows for a small amount of air between the layers and improves the insulating qualities.  Having an outer layer of nylon can help, particularly on windy days.

The winter can be a great time to build a conditioning base for the coming year.  Make the necessary adjustments in clothing and workouts, take what the weather gives you, and think of how much you'll appreciate the above-freezing days.

Tip of the Month provided by John Lowe, PT, located at our Portage Park facility.