The best way to run through the winter

Sunday, December 20, 2015 · Mike Davis

Good morning! Last day of fall! The running world somewhat quiets down this time of year and for lack of a better description I guess you can say it is the “off season.” For many runners there is no “off season” just, one with less events going on. As running has grown in popularity the level of discipline with it has also grown. More people are now treating running as a year round activity whether it be running solo through the wintery streets and roads, moving inside on a treadmill or connecting with a winter running group such as “No Finish Line Running’s” “Winter Running Group.” All 3 are great options though many would say that the treadmill would never be considered a “great option!” As a running coach I would most definitely recommend combining solo, group and the treadmill running throughout the winter to most of our runners. Some have specific preferences or circumstances that dictate how they manager their running through the winter and that’s certainly okay. Let’s take a look at each option: Solo outside running The serenity of running through streets and backroads throughout the winter can be almost magical at times. Given enough safe space to run, being outside fills you with vitamin D which is important for both physical and mental health. Many struggle with being cooped up inside with minimal exposure to the sun during the winter months and often feel “held hostage” by winter. Personally when I decided that I would run regularly outside throughout the winter, my winters moved quicker and became more enjoyable. Running outside can be very challenging but, with the right equipment and some common sense, it can be done in most conditions. Training for a spring event often requires a long run and while a treadmill is definitely possible, running those long runs outside offers greater training benefits. I always recommend finding routes that offers minimal traffic or well-maintained sidewalks as a way to safely and enjoyably run. Treadmill running If I had to say what the percentage of our runners that “hate the treadmill” is, I would say it would be 75 percent or greater! I hear it all the time, “I hate the treadmill,” “I can’t run on a treadmill” and on and on… I get it, I really do but, the treadmill has benefits that allow for safe winter running and help with our training. Running outside is not always safe or even helpful at times and the options become a treadmill or “not running.” Not running at all can be okay and there are certainly great cross-training options but, if your running routine is important for whatever reason a treadmill will help to maintain your training or need for a run. I have written about how the treadmill has great value for certain types of workouts such as intervals or repeats, so I often switch around workouts if the weather dictates being inside. As a certified running coach I certainly like to utilize all the resources available and a treadmill is a valuable resource and can benefit every runner. Running Groups No Finish Line Running is once again running a “Winter Running Group,” that started back in November and will go through April. This group is available to any level of runner and because we are not training for a specific event it is open to joining any time throughout the winter. Just come on over to the Center on Saturday mornings at 8:30 or join us for a pub run Wednesday evenings at 6pm from the 7th Settlement Brewery. Last winter was brutal for even the most seasoned New England runner. There were many morning and evenings that it would have been easy to stay in and choose the warmth over the sub 20 temperatures outside. Having a group of people to meet up with most definitely made a difference for me. Honestly there were many nights that I hoped no one would show, so I could go back inside, only to have multiple people show up! The funny thing was, if most were asked prior to the run if they wanted to do the run or stay in and have a drink, they would probably choose the ladder; however, once running the cold and elements were not a problem. That said, when we finished getting inside was something special! Having a group to be accountable too is a great way to help with your winter running for sure. Runners Alley in Portsmouth, Manchester and Concord all have “Winter Warrior” running groups that provide incentive as well, so there is no shortage of opportunities. As I said I like a combination of all 3 ways of running throughout the winter. Each offers different value but, combined they complement each other. In the end whatever helps you keep running is ultimately the best method. Certainly consider safety first and foremost. Running outside requires some thinking and proper running gear. Conditions can become dangerous as well as limited running space. No your surroundings and be aware of vehicles. A runner’s safety is up to them, not the vehicle operators. Always expect the unexpected and look for the eyes of the person behind the wheel. Even in daylight wear bright reflective gear that insures you will be seen. Keep it safe and fun! Tomorrow is the first official day of winter and is the shortest day of the year. That means come Tuesday the days start to get longer or at least lighter, so that’s a good thing! Have a great week and see you on the roads! God Bless! Mike