Winter Running - Beginner

sheldonklein

In season, the Costcos near me (Mich.) have all of the gear except special shoes. Even Yaxtrax.
Last fall I was just starting to run. Late November for a change of pace I decided to run on a treadmill. I immediately started having hamstring problem that didn't heal until Spring, so I couldn't run for 4 months. I blame the treadmill, unfairly or not, so this winter I plan to run strictly outdoors.

MrsSteveJP

Thanks again everyone - you all have been very helpful... now I just have to wait for some of this stuff to be in the stores to buy!

RunnersLament

Hey Good Afternoon! Love the fact that you are just starting to run and embracing it. I personally hate the Treadmill so run outdoors whenever possible and for me that means some bitterly cold Manitoba mornings.

There are no doubt many tips you'll receive and hopefully some of what I'll say will help.

1. A little Vaseline on the cheeks will help with the wind burn on the face.
2. A little duct tape on the shoes will keep you in shoes you are used to but will contain some of the heat.
3. Wear layers and dress like its 10 degree's warmer than it is. Personally I wear a wicking base layer, a layer of natural fibers (wool is nice) and then wind protection layer (but add intermediate layers depending on how cold it truly is.)
4. Coverage is important... Frostbite likes to find exposed skin.
5. Wear a decent hat/balaclava to protect your ears/face/head... we really do lose a great deal of heat thru our heads... its ok to look like you are going to rob a bank when its -25 or colder.
6. I run with my iPhone and these are prone to freezing up... I keep mine in a ziplock bag, tucked into an inside pocket closest to my core to prevent this.
7. Run with friends and plan to have coffee afterwards as a reward!
8. In our neck of the woods it gets dark early over the winter... wear a headlamp and reflective clothing. Give cars every opportunity to see you!
9. Avoid speedwork outdoors... it never really works for most between the ice and cold.
10. Cleats... you can buy Yaktracks etc relatively easily and will give you traction on ice... or some 1/4 inch 1/3rd inch hex head screws can be screwed into the bottom of an old pair of shoes to give you instant traction.
11. Be aware that dehydration can still happen in winter! I have a thermal Contigo mug that replaces my water bottle and usually only freezes after the first 5 miles or so.
12. Have fun... don't forget to make some snow angels and enjoy the feeling as you take in that crisp fresh winter air!

I'm from Winnipeg, so know exactly what you are running in. I also coach some of the Winter Running Clinics at the Running Room. If you have any questions... feel free to ask!

RunnersLament

MrsSteveJP wrote: »

Thanks again everyone!! wow - more reply than expected!

Question: when shopping online for the tights; is is important that it says 'insulated' or something of the like or can they just be running tights?

Depends on how cold it gets! I usually just throw on a pair of wind pants or even old sweats over top of normal running tights to provide another layer.