I like running in the snow. There. I've said it out loud in front of everyone. Why? Because if there's snow it's cool out, so overheating typically isn't a problem. Plus, the possibility of ice hiding under the snow that your neighbour's haven't shoveled off the sidewalk means you have to run well.
I like snow anyways. Not so much the idiot drivers that can't cope, but I don't blame snow for that. Sunny but cool days (say 0 to -10 C) are perfect for so many outdoor things in the winter. I'm going to try to get outside for more of them this year. Snowshoeing for sure, though I've been saying that for a couple of years.
If you run by sticking your leg way out in front, or with great long loping strides by pushing off with your toes, you're going to have a problem with ice. The trick to it is to land with your foot squarely under your centre of balance, and pick it up as your centre of balance moves forward. You have to be aware of your balance and posture. You have to be controlled, but relaxed and ready for anything. In short, you have to pay attention.
Tonight I went out for an easy run, the equivalent of an easy spin on the bike. I wanted to keep my turnover fast, and my feet light. I kept my breathing easy, and wasn't working too hard. Because of the possibility of icy sidewalks and crosswalks in the dark, I was running like every step was on ice.
There was some stretching and joint warmup, then 45 minutes easy running, and a few minutes walking to cool down. A little more stretching after. It was nice out, maybe -8 C (18 F) with very little wind. Long sleeved tech shirt and a light jacket, toque, and gloves.
No yoga tomorrow night. I'm going to play with some of the buttons at the bottom of the blog to see what happens.
Gonna try running in the snow for the first time (in the dark, but at least with a group in a lighted area) tomorrow night.
ReplyDeleteIf you go snowshoeing let me and Kris know. I did it once in school and loved it. Would love to check it out again.
You will be fine. Though there is something really nice about running in the total dark. Alone. Without a light. Will keep you posted about the snowshoeing.
ReplyDeleteI like running in the snow, but not so much the ice. Thanks for all the form tips on it. I'll definitely keep them in mind through the winter.
ReplyDeleteI love cross country skiing, but sometimes, snowshoeing is definitely a blast, too. Last time I went, Boyfriend and I tried to race across a snow covered frozen lake in our snowshoes. Wow, that's awkward.
ReplyDeleteWell, there's ice, and then there's ice. Some kinds are better for running on. Calgary is pretty good about keeping some of the paths clear. Better than some of the roads.
ReplyDeleteI haven't x skied for a long time. Maybe I should try that again. I have been informed that I am for sure snowshoeing this year. One of my stalk I mean buddies is going to help me make it happen.
ReplyDeleteI can't get past the title...
ReplyDeleteIt's too cold for me -- over the years,I've weaned myself off cold weather running and towards hotter weather running (although, I still have a ways to go). Now I am so frigging cold...I have started to wear my merino leggings underneath my jeans!! I kid you not!!
ReplyDeleteYou'll grow to love it too. You'll have to, living so far north...
ReplyDeleteI am boggled. I don't know you could wean yourself off cold weather running. Personally, I think it's the wind.
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