COLD WEATHER RUNNING TIPS
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On Monday, I saw a man running in shorts. I told him he was crazy. He responded with, "gotta take advantage of this nice weather". The bank thermometer read 27 degrees. I guess that is a virtual heat wave these days... I usually feel empowered after a run - but in the winter, I feel energized to take on the world! I love the bragging rights that come with saying, "I ran outside today" especially when the weather is particularly raw, and I love the fitness head start you achieve when you don't hibernate.
The challenge is getting out the door. Here are a few of my favorite tips:
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- Don't Go Alone: Make a date to run with someone because there is no wimping out when someone is waiting for you. Don't have friends crazy enough to join you? Come to our free Run Club meet-ups (Wed & Sat) or one of our training programs. You'll be in great company!
- Arm Your Feet: Tuck your mesh sneakers in the closet for a few months and invest in a pair of winterized or trail shoes. Not only will the closed uppers keep your feet warmer and drier, but the added traction is a bonus on slippery roads. (secret tip: winterized running shoes will be 30% off at our Winter Garage Sale this weekend!)
- Layer Up: Dress in layers. On top, choose a wool baselayer, insulating mid-layer and a weather resistant shell. For your legs, look for tights/pants that are insulating on the inside and wind-resistant on the outside. Look for mid & outer layers with zippers so you can better thermoregulate your body's temperature. Check out our guide to winter layering here.
- Be Seen: Light yourself up like a Christmas tree with blinking lights and a reflective vest. Also, wear a headlamp or carry a runner-friendly flashlight so you can see sidewalk cracks and ice patches. Give cars plenty of notice that they need to share the road and slow down.
- Warm-Up Inside: Get your blood flowing, but don't break a sweat. The cold won't feel so cold if you're warm. One reader suggested speed-cleaning the house (that's enough motivation to get out the door ASAP!)
- Deal with the Wind: Start your run into the wind and finish with it at your back. Be sure to protect any exposed skin with a thick lotion like Aquaphor or Vaseline (I like to coat my Raynaud's-effected hands and feet too - helps trap your body's natural heat).
- Forget Speed: Winter running is more about maintenance than speed - though running through the snow will make you a stronger runner.
- Change Quickly Post Run: Your core body temperature drops quickly after exercise. Change into dry clothes and drink some hot fluids (HydroFlask bottles will keep your beverages hot for up to 8 hours...even when the bottle is sitting in your cold car).
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Don't let the cold be an excuse. With the right gear and common sense, you can safely run outside. You can become a Winter Warrior!
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WINTER TRAINING PROGRAMS - LAST CALL Let our friendly, motivating and fun Coaches and Mentors help you cross the finish line of your goal race! Whether you are just getting started on your fitness journey and want to join our nationally-recognized No Boundaries 5k training program or have a few runs under your belt and are training for something bigger (like "The Hill" at the Bolton 5 Miler or a Spring Half or Full Marathon), we've got a program for you.
Use promo code "CountMeIn" to save $10 off the registration fee.
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Our most-popular training program! In just 10 weeks, you'll go from the couch to crossing the finish line of the O'Hartford 5k - and you won't need the luck of the Irish!
Three levels to choose from: Walk, Run/Walk intervals or All-Run. Plus, super passionate coaches - many of whom are graduates of this program - will be with you every step of the way!
For those who want to get faster - whether that's sub-20 or breaking 30 minutes for the first time, check out our Fast 5k training program.
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Take the next step in your running journey with this challenging but fun 10-week program that trains you to conquer "The Hill" at the Bolton 5-Mile race. It's perfect for those who have recently completed a 5k and are ready for their next challenge.
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Does your spring running plans include going the distance? Maybe you are looking to PR your half, run your first marathon or even BQ?
A successful spring race depends on the quality of your winter training which is why we are super excited to be partnering with two of Connecticut's premier coaches who want to help you get to the finish line faster, stronger and healthier than ever before.
While we will host weekly group runs, these training programs are more focused on personalized training plans and 1-on-1 conversations with your coach to adjust the plan as needed.
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HEALTHY EATING CHALLENGE
If your New Years Resolutions include losing a few pounds or even just eating cleaner (but you really don't want to diet), read on! We ran a mini version of this challenge last spring and had some incredible results with the majority of active participants dropping 2-3% body fat in just 6-weeks.
UCAN nutritionists will help conduct the challenge and all registered participants will get a 25% discount off UCAN purchases. There is no registration free for this program.
To learn more about the Challenge and why UCAN works, watch this 2-minute video from Karin Hosenfeld, a registered dietitian for UCAN.
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FFRC MEET-UPS (FREE): Wednesday at 6:30pm & Saturday's at 8:30am Join Kevin & the FFRC pacers for a run from the store. Join our fun run crew for 3-5 miles (Wed & Sat) or join up with our half and full marathon groups on Saturdays to run longer.
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MLK HOLIDAY WEEKEND SALE: Friday-Monday
"There is no such thing as bad weather...just inappropriate clothes!"
Get all the gear you need to workout outside AND inside this winter during our Gear-Up Sale. Fantastic deals on winter apparel & accessories, shoes (winter, racing and cross-trainers) & sports bras. The Sale Flyer listing all the details will be emailed to you on Thursday. Stock-up. Be Warm. Save Big!
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AUBREY'S RECIPE: Cilantro Lime Rice This is such a yummy side dish. I recommend making a double-bath so you have leftovers. It’s so good with lemony shrimp & broccoli, chili & burrito bowls. Get the recipe here.
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8 RESOLUTIONS FOR RUNNERS: Not sure what goal to set for 2018? Here's our Top 8 Running Resolutions - maybe one (or more!) will speak to you. Read more
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HOW TO TAKE INSTRGRAM-WORTHY PICS ON THE RUN: Three runner-photographers share their tips on capturing stunning images on your smartphone.Here's How.
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