Running in ice/snow

kjwillie

So, I went for a run (no, a jog) on the trail this afternoon that was covered in slippery snow and ice. In the places where there wasn't snow, there was a lot of mud. It even started snowing at one point during my workout.
My question is: what are your thoughts on running in snow/ice? What are the benefits? I had to slow down my pace considerably and felt like I was going at a snail's speed. This was to avoid slipping/ falling through the snow or twisting an ankle. I went a little longer to make up for the lack of speed, but I'm not sure what the benefits to running in snow on a trail would be to running on the road. Are my legs at least getting stronger? Or my ankles?
I'm not well-versed in the sport of running, so any advice would be greatly appreciated. I also have some races coming up that I'm trying to train for including a 4 miler, so I'm just trying to run any way that I can. Thanks for your help!!

SonicDeathMonkey80

It's definitely more of a workout, and very worth it if done safely. You're not getting the bounce from a hard surface, so you're having to propel yourself more and activate muscles more that normally wouldn't engage in the manner they do in the snow (and similar, sand). Trails are always going to be worse than roads during inclement weather, and for a while after until they are dry/groomed. You said you went slower to make up for the lack of speed (smart), and you were relatively newer to running, so my unsolicited advice is that speed take a backseat anyway, no matter what the conditions are.

_Zardoz_

The obvious advantage is the cardiovascular workout then there's getting used to running on varied surfaces which will strengthen both muscles, tendons and ligaments. Then of course it's fun (well I think it is). Never worry about your Pace in the snow just run at a safe and comfortable speed for yourself. A good pair of trail shoes makes the world of difference. Also just the act of running will improve your running

holliebevineau

Running is normally my thing but just 2 days ago I decided not to run because it was snowing. So instead I got out my new jump rope and jumped for 27 minutes taking occasional 30 sec breaks. Now my left hip hurts. I was afraid to run in the snow because I may slip and fall. I guess I should have run in the snow because now I can't do anything until I see my Doctor.

Zekela

My thoughts... add Sarahc001 to your friend's list! She sent me some screws to drill into my old running shoes... I totally tried it and went on an extremely slippery and snow covered trail... I was literally hitting every icy spot to see if I'd fall and I didn't. The screws totally worked. I ran for about 8 miles. I stopped because it was too cold out for me (i.e. about 10 degrees F).

sarahc001

You can use sheet metal screws (instructions here: http://www.skyrunner.com/screwshoe.htm.) However goat head sole spikes (which Zekela has) screw in just like the sheet metal variety, yet they are thicker and have more bite to them. You can find the 3/8" sheet metal screws at a hardware store; goat head sole spikes are at solespikes.com. Good luck!