Snow Running Mistakes I've Made...

I love being able to pass on things I've learned, and this blog is a testament to the tons of shit I've learned. Sadly, these things are learned as I make mistakes....luckily I'm bright enough to learn from them.

This weekend's lesson involves running technique while logging miles in a snowy, wintry climate. This is my first real winter running season, and I've been forced to learn lots as I wade through drifts of snow, slide across patches of ice and attempt to avoid being struck by stray snowballs.

Lesson #1: Get a pair of running tights

If you can get over the embarrassment you might feel from wearing tights it will be the best running related decision you will have ever made. I can't believe how amazing tights feel. They keep you warm in all conditions and make your legs look damn fine to boot.  Get a black pair with reflective stripes, good luck not rubbing your legs. 

Lesson #2: Invest in good mittens

Gloves suck. Mittens rule. 

Lesson #3: Pay special attention to your gait, and any changes the snow may have had on it.

I'm a slightly heavier runner than most and when doing tempo work I found myself trying to be as light as possible as I trudged through soft packed snow. This is all well so long as I don't recruit single muscles to do the job, and it turns out I was. I was relying too heavily on my hamstrings to lift my feet off the ground and that caused excessive tightness that resulted in IT Band related pain.

Also pay attention to any external foot rotation and try and adjust for it. You want your feet to be pointing as straight as possible, otherwise you'll be exerting forces on your IT Band that could result in an injury.

Lesson #4: Run with the wind

Winter is a very windy season and nothing sucks more than running into a headwind. Try and fit your route so that you are as shielded as possible and have the wind at your back.

Lesson #5: Find a running partner

As the nights get darker sooner you'll want a little extra assurance that you'll actually get out the door after work instead of sitting in front of the fireplace. A running buddy is great for this as it makes the two of your accountable.

Lesson #6: Protect your face

Get a balaclava to shield your face. All fine running brands make excellent models that can shield your ears, nose, cheeks and chin.