Originally posted 12/18/2009
The excitement of an impending snowstorm is setting in. Children (and their teachers) are bitter that they probably will not be getting a day off of school. I’ve come up with a few suggestions for successful snow running tips.

1- Be the first on the trail. Running in the fresh powder before it all gets beaten down into ice is key.
2- Layer up! You can always pull a layer off if you get too hot. And wear a hat!
3- Gore-Tex shoes. Nike makes a nice neutral and stability shoe with a Gore-Tex upper…keep your feet warm and dry.
4- Know your trail. Remember that low spot that always seems to be a puddle? Keep a mental note to take it easy through that section.
5- Expect and know how to fall. Don’t lock out the joints and save your head!
6- Quit wearing shorts over your tights! Read Jeanette’s columns for fashion tips and avoid this fashion faux pas. If you need extra cold/wind blocking, get some wind-paneled briefs, or pop a semi-fitted pant over the tights.
7- Put some pants on! That numb tingling you get on bare flesh is not a badge of courage. It is the beginnings of frostbite. You aren’t a superhero, no matter what you think.
8- Bring dry clothes. If you are traveling to a favorite running spot, be sure to bring an extra set of clothing to change into for the drive home. Make sure you have a winter emergency kit in your car while you are at it.
9- Refer to Cathy’s blog about proper warm up. Take it easy going out the door and realize that your run is going to be slower overall.
10- If it is really bad/cold, play it safe and skip the run. Set up a circuit in your house of various exercises. Push ups, crunches, squat jumps, floor dips, pull-ups, step ups, half squats and lunges is a solid circuit to run through a few times. Do 30seconds on and go right into the next exercise.

A little safety and discretion goes a long way in enjoying winter running.

The holidays are a great time to see friends and family and enjoy being together. If alcohol is a part of your celebration, don’t get behind the wheel. Designate a driver or give SoberRide a call at 1-800-200-TAXI for a free ride home. I’d like to see you running in the new year. From my family to yours, have a safe and happy holiday season!
Happy Running.