Posted on Sat, Dec 11, 2010 : 4:34 p.m.
Fit Mommy: Essential gear for running in a winter wonderland
By Eva Johnson
You can run in the snow without being left in the cold.
photo by flickr user wmacphail
Here are some of their recommendations for staying warm on your next winter wonderland run. Don't become Chilly Willy, frozen through and through. Instead, head to a running store (like Running Fit) and get some new winter gear. The first rule of thumb: dress as if it were 20 degrees warmer outside. This will prevent you from staying a little too warm.
Here's your checklist of the essentials:
- Appropriate head coverings: Try a thermal hat, ski mask or a neck gaiter (worn mostly by skiers). I have also heard about great hats that have a hole for a ponytail. If you are a music addict like myself, you may like the earmuffs I saw at Target that contain earbuds.The key is to prevent all of the heat escaping outside of your head without holding in the sweat that will make you cold.
- Clothing: Dress in layers, and find gear that is especially designed for running. As one of my friends told me "cotton is rotten." Invest in Under Armour or other breathable layers. You may be surprised to find out that you will be able to move your arms (unlike Ralphie's little brother in A Christmas Story) and still run comfortably in the coldest winter months.
- Mittens/Gloves: Make sure to find ones that wick away moisture. Also, I would recommend mittens on the coldest days because these will keep your hands warmest.
- YakTrax Ice Grippers: Worried about slipping? No need! These little shoe accessories slip over your shoes so that you can avoid slipping and sliding. If you find that puddles are a real problem, you can also spend more and get waterproof running shoes/boots instead.
Are you feeling motivated to try running in the winter wonderland? Or, do you run regularly in the cold? If so, please share your experiences and let me know what other equipment you find invaluable!
Eva Johnson is an ACE (American Council on Exercise) certified personal trainer, who has some crazy winter running buddies! She lives in chaos with her husband and two boys. To see her complete blog about how to stay sane and in shape in the real world, visit www.fitnessbyeva.com.
Comments
Eva Johnson
Wed, Dec 15, 2010 : 10:36 a.m.
Thanks to you all for reading and commenting! @sun runner-great idea about the headlamp! It is dark on these cold, Michigan nights!
sun runner
Mon, Dec 13, 2010 : 10:03 a.m.
An LED-equipped headlamp can provide the extra illumination one needs in dark areas. I have been running year-round for four years, including winter training for two spring marathons. It can get rough at times but overall I prefer the cold to the misery of hot summer weather. The key is layers upon layers of synthetic fabric!
glimmertwin
Mon, Dec 13, 2010 : 5:47 a.m.
Nice article. I've never had a problem with cold weather and have enjoyed running in it for over 31 years. But since moving here 16 years ago, the real problem is lighted areas. Unfortunately, many working people can't find time during daylight hours to get their daily runs in. For that reason, a couple of years ago I broke down and bought a treadmill. Now I'm a hampster on wheel, but at least getting some miles in. Too many close calls with early morning runs outdoors. But I do love the weekends.
Tom Harrison
Sun, Dec 12, 2010 : 12:27 a.m.
Cotton can be downright dangerous when it gets wet in cold weather. Synthetics that wick moisture are the answer. Great article!
Eva Johnson
Fri, Dec 10, 2010 : 5:16 p.m.
My friend's Team in Training websites! Christy: http://pages.teamintraining.org/mi/cmc11/covergaard Heather: http://pages.teamintraining.org/mi/cmc11/hbeckt