Keep warm, keep safe, keep fit!

As soon as the clocks go back and the darkness of night outweighs the daytime, along with a drop in temperature, many of us struggle to find the motivation to open the door and run in the cold and dark of the early mornings and evenings. However, more often than not, once you are out there you soon forget about it and when finished, the thrill and buzz can be even better than one of those beautiful spring-like morning runs. But before the inexperienced among us take those first few Winter running steps, it is important to pay attention to certain factors that can turn a Winter run from what should be a pleasant experience into one that could put you off for good. Neil Featherby of Sportlink in Taverham is the man in the know for all things running. Here are his top tips for anyone who wants to get out and about and stay fit this Winter…

Clothing

Be safe be seen. Clothing is very important with reflective gear being right at the top of the list. Most running gear now has reflective strips and actually use reflective materials during the manufacturing of all clothing and footwear. For those who perhaps don’t want to spend money on running gear just for the winter months, then a reflective bib can be worn over the top of any item of clothing which will more than suffice. The saying, ‘Be Safe, Be Seen’ is undoubtedly a quote to always remember when running in poor light.

Be comfortable. Needless to say there are other considerations with regards to what to wear to meet those potential winter elements and keep you not only warm and dry, but comfortable too. I always start with a base layer made from wicking material/ fibres which will wick away any build-up of moisture from sweat. Cotton retains moisture which is not only uncomfortable, but can lead to chafing and a drop in body temperature if you slow down or turn into a cold wind. You can then add other lightweight vests, t shirts or even long sleeve tops to this depending upon the conditions. If it is freezing cold, then a third layer may be necessary and if it is raining and very windy, then a lightweight showerproof jacket too.

If out on one of those longer runs and the rain stops and you start to get a little too warm, most lightweight jackets can easily be folded up and carried or just tied around your waist. I suffer quite badly with cold fingers so I wear lightweight gloves.

Other items which I like to have available are a pair of running tights and high quality running socks. If shoes are the most important piece of a runner’s equipment then socks have to be the second most important item. Ladies should also consider a good sports bra as an important piece of running equipment.

Headwear

A hat is also a must for me with not wanting to lose all the heat through the top of my bald head! Ladies may want to consider head bands when the temperature drops those few extra degrees. Head torches have become popular recently, which are brilliant for running in the dark and certainly help light up the way and of course ensure that you are seen.

Footwear

For those who don’t like getting their feet wet, there are several models of running shoe which are made with a Goretex fabric. However before purchasing a ‘Goretex Running Shoe’, make sure the shoe itself fits your footwear requirements as there are several Goretex running shoes on the market which are lacking in very important departments. Grip in very slippery and icy under foot conditions also need to be considered so if your shoes don’t have enough tread, consider driving to somewhere where the surface is better suited or purchase a set of snow/ ice grippers which can easily be fitted on to the soles of your running shoes.

When it comes to running equipment, like everything else you tend to get what you pay for. You don’t have to be able to afford a Ferrari to get a great car and that is the same with running gear, however there are price points which do need to be considered when purchasing quality footwear, clothing and equipment particularly if you want it to retain their capabilities year after year.

Warm up

Always warm up before running at any time of the year, but during the cooler months, a good warm up will certainly make you feel that much better before taking those first few strides when the air temperature is cooler, as our muscles do not contract at the same intensity and are less powerful in colder temperatures. One other consideration to take on board is that whilst our bodies rely on carbohydrates as a source of energy for distance running, energy consumption from carbohydrates increases during cooler temperatures and therefore it is advisable to ensure that you have eaten a meal high in complex carbohydrates the night before if planning a long morning run or indeed a light meal or foods containing carbohydrates two to three hours beforehand. This is also another good reason to make sure that you wear clothing which will keep you warm during your run.

Warm Down

As with warming up, the warm down is also very important, but if you are wet and the temperature is extra cold then it only takes a few minutes after stopping for your body temperature to drop to the point where you can start shivering. If you have done a few mins of gentle jogging at the end of your run, then put another top on before doing your stretching exercises and if wet and cold then take off your wet layers and replace with dry clothing as soon as you can. Consume some water and eat a little food too or consume a recovery drink which will help to replace the fluid and nutrients lost during your run.

Hydration

During warm weather running we all pay attention to staying hydrated, but this is just as applicable to running in the cooler temperatures. Therefore always have a drink before you go and just as you might in the summer months, carry a drinks bottle with you so as to top up along the way especially on the longer one hour+ runs.

“Happy Running whatever the weather and conditions!”