When my running friends ask me if I have any podiatric advice for running in winter I usually tell them to skip the run and stay in bed! But seriously, winter can put a dent in your training schedule because it’s so cold and dark and everyone else is sipping hot chocolate and watching Downton Abbey reruns. But stay strong and stick to these helpful tips to get you through the chilly season:
- Suit up! Wearing the correct clothes is a must. Layering is the best way to start off warm and allow you to cool off if you get too hot. Wear a moisture absorbent inner layer, an insulating middle layer and an outer shell that can keep off the wind.
- Keep hydrated: it’s easy to forget to drink water when you’re cold but remember that you are still sweating and that water needs to be replaced.
- Be reflective: the sun is rising later and setting earlier so wear a reflective vest to remain visible to motorists when it is dark.
- Choose your route: winter is dark and gloomy and the motorists on the road may have a hard time seeing you so aside from wearing reflective gear, choose a well-lit route.
- Extremities: A lot of heat is lost from your head, feet and hands so make sure have a beanie and mittens handy (see what I did there…). These can put scrunched up and put in a pocket if you start heating up. Woollen socks are absorbent and keep the toes toasty.
