Wow It is Cold Out....Got to Keep Running!
I am sure there is a large collection of people out there that rain, sleet, or snow will be out running. So, if you are one of those people here are a few tips to keep you out running and not limping into therapy:
1. Lots of Water - It seems hard to believe but you lose a considerable amount of water while breathing in cold weather. Your lungs have to add moisture to the air entering you lungs, sucking it away from your body. Just because you aren't sweating as much make sure that the water consumption does not go down.
2. Check Those Shoes - Slicker conditions mean worn down shoes are more problematic. Check the bottoms of your running sneakers: if the tread is gone, consider it a late christmas gift to yourself and get another pair. Slipping and falling will definetly ruin your rountine more than the drive to the mall and $60 investment.
3. Warm It Up - Cold muscles and cold weather equal big problems. Start off your runs a little slower than in warmer weather. This gives your body a chance to pump warm blood to all the muscles, tendons, and ligaments to return them to their proper elasticity. You certainly don't have to do one hour of stretching and light jogging before hand but maybe coasting the first 5-10 minutes would be a good idea.
4. Stay Dry - Water takes heat away from the body 20x faster than air alone. This little fact means if you get too sweaty and are exposed to the elements your body will chill really fast. Layers is the best idea with wick-away clothing that does not collect moisture. Costs a little more but skipping your next run because of freezing your tail off will ruin your routine.
1. Lots of Water - It seems hard to believe but you lose a considerable amount of water while breathing in cold weather. Your lungs have to add moisture to the air entering you lungs, sucking it away from your body. Just because you aren't sweating as much make sure that the water consumption does not go down.
2. Check Those Shoes - Slicker conditions mean worn down shoes are more problematic. Check the bottoms of your running sneakers: if the tread is gone, consider it a late christmas gift to yourself and get another pair. Slipping and falling will definetly ruin your rountine more than the drive to the mall and $60 investment.
3. Warm It Up - Cold muscles and cold weather equal big problems. Start off your runs a little slower than in warmer weather. This gives your body a chance to pump warm blood to all the muscles, tendons, and ligaments to return them to their proper elasticity. You certainly don't have to do one hour of stretching and light jogging before hand but maybe coasting the first 5-10 minutes would be a good idea.
4. Stay Dry - Water takes heat away from the body 20x faster than air alone. This little fact means if you get too sweaty and are exposed to the elements your body will chill really fast. Layers is the best idea with wick-away clothing that does not collect moisture. Costs a little more but skipping your next run because of freezing your tail off will ruin your routine.


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