A snowstorm late Tuesday led to a three-hour delay in the start of operations at my employer, Valparaiso University, so I did what any self-respecting runner would: I suited up for a trudge through the snow.
Swirling winds affect how much snow is on the ground at any given point. Probably a foot and a half greeted my first few steps out the door.
By the late afternoon, thanks to plows and sunlight, the roads were clear, but at 9 in the morning every inch was covered. I lasted for 40 minutes and made it about three miles. I managed a good pace for the first mile, and then it turned into more of a hike.
I was planning to do a lot more treadmill running this winter, but for some reason I just haven't been enthusiastic about the old 'mill. So it's been largely outdoors for me. In passing along the following tips, I'd like to triple-underline that I am not an expert or a doctor, so consult a health professional if you're unsure about how wise it is to gear up and go for a run on seven-degree mornings.
1. Layer up: I wear two or three running shirts and a windbreaker-type shell, a couple of pairs of running pants, and a hat on top of one of those head-covering hoods that you see football players sporting under their helmets in cold weather. I wear regular running shoes with longer socks.
2. Set a time limit: For me it's no more than an hour. Most of my winter runs don't last longer than 45 minutes. My minimum is 20 minutes. Any shorter and I don't feel like it's worth it to put all of that stuff on.
3. Don't worry about pace: I try to run at a decent interval and mix in some walking/hiking. Maintaining a nine-minute mile or whatever is not my concern.
4. Watch your footing: If it's icy, my stride is more of a shuffle or shamble. I try to keep my weight evenly distributed and balanced. Expect to slide at some points.
5. Watch out for traffic: Drivers are trying to stay on the road and might not be looking out for you. Luckily, my neighborhood has very light traffic and plenty of opportunities to run far away from the actual roadway.
I can't say that I love running in the cold and snow, but I've gotten used to it since moving here in September, and I will add that I think it's quite a good workout, very different than a pleasant run in good weather on certain terrain.
