This time of year normally attributes itself to people easing of their training gradually as the month goes on. There tends to be less events than any other time of year.
The heat of home may be distracting, and motivating yourself to battle the sub-5-degree temperatures can be tough. The days are shorter, the nights longer, but you can still get out there and stay active while the elements are changing.
Once you get those first few minutes behind you, the run itself is the same as it ever was. Get your reflective jacket, pull on your woolly hat, set a goal, and get after it. Here are some tips to stay on track during winter and keep yourself safe at the same time.
- Layer Up!
In terms of gear, it would be smart to layer up during the winter months when going for a run. Whether that’s wearing thermals on your upper or lower body, or both, layering up is a smart idea.
- Reflective Jacket
When road running in winter, you'll need your reflective jacket to ensure drivers can see you properly and avoid any accidents.
- Wear A Headlight
Wear a hat with a headlight attached. This one may seem obvious but it’s vitally important for the winter to maintain both heat and visibility and this can do them both in one.
- Bone Conduction Headphones
An item that is becoming very popular at the moment is bone conduction headphones. These headphones allow you to be aware of what’s happening around you, while you also listen to your running playlist or favourite podcast. They are a great option for people who may feel uncomfortable when running with noise cancelling earbuds in.
- Correct Footwear
Given the inevitable icy conditions, wearing the correct footwear is paramount to running safely in winter time. Leaning back into the above point on layering up, why not wear an additional pair of socks?
- Warm-up
An often overlooked but key element to any training is warming up, so be sure to warm up before hitting the track or the roads this winter.
- Grab a Friend!
If you are lucky enough to be a member of an Athletics Club, message a buddy and do it together. If you can get a running partner and have a local park or pitch available to you, make the most of it.
By putting some of these tips into practice this winter, you can stay on track with your goals and hit the new year on a high!