Five Tips to Make Running in Winter More Pleasant!
I love to run.
However that’s now always been the case.
This time last year I would use the bad weather as an excuse not to run.
I’d look out of the window, see rain and decide it was too wet to run.
Either that or I’d open the front door, feel the cold and decide that it was too cold to run.
Well, I have some news for you!
Rain and cold temperatures can actually enhance your running experience. In fact I’ll go as far as to say that it can actually make you a better runner.
My best runs are in the rain. I don’t know why, but they are. Maybe it’s because I want to get it over and done with quicker so I can go back inside in the warm, or maybe it’s simply because running in the rain makes me feel powerful, strong and as though I can accomplish anything.
Unless there’s a hurricane or severe storm, then I’ll run regardless of what the weather is like.
That being said it is important to be prepared. You’ll do yourself harm if you go out in the cold and rain in your shorts and t-shirt. They may have seen you through most the year, but it’s time to put them away now!
Invest in some thermals, layer up and get out of the door! Yes, sportswear can be expensive, but if you look online you can find plenty of discounts and voucher codes. Just look at this Nike voucher code UK. From free delivery to money off your shop it’s all worth it!
Mountain warehouse is another of my favourite places to shop for running gear, and I even found voucher codes online for them too! Mountain Warehouse voucher code UK.
So now that you have the right clothes, here are my 10 tips to make running in winter more pleasant!
- Plan your run. You know the weather is going to be miserable. It’s going to be cold. It’s going to be wet, but by planning a route along with a running schedule, this can help you to stay motivated. I could happily spend hours mapping out new routes on my computer! It’s important to be sensible when planning your winter running routes. If it’s foggy or slippy outside, then it’s probably best to avoid the local park and stick to well light main roads.
- Keep your feet warm. There’s nothing worse than getting half way through your run to discover you have cold, wet feet. Not only will they slow you down, they’ll also leave you feeling shivery and cold for the rest of the day! A good pair of socks and shoes are your best friend!
- Stay seen! Winter mornings and evenings can be dark so it’s important to stay safe and be seen. Reflective coats and LED running vests are important essentials for every runner.
- Tell someone where you’re going or use an app so friends can track you. Letting people know your route and roughly what time you should be home is a good idea. You can also get free apps for your mobile phone that lets your friends track you in real time or alert your friends if you stop moving for a specified amount of time.
- As soon as you get home change out of your running clothes. They’ll most likely be wet and dirty, plus you’ll want to put something warm on to make sure your temperature doesn’t drop too quickly.
So those are my tips for running in winter. Let me know how you get on!
