The darkness and chill of the winter months present some difficult times for runners. Many people move inside to treadmills to get their workouts in, while others buy yellow vests and battle the outdoor conditions. While this can be a trying time – both physically and mentally – changing up your running routine can help you make it through the winter and be better prepared for spring races, such as the Boston Marathon.
Many runners, especially those that run to stay in shape, only go on distance runs. However, in the winter not all streets are lit and it’s really not safe to run where there aren’t sidewalks. Adding in a variety of workouts will provide more flexibility to stay off these dangerous streets. Below is a list of three workouts that can help you make it through winter running:
1. Track workout: Find the closest high school or college track where you can either go for a run or do some mile or half mile repeats. Often times these tracks are lit (because there is a football field in the middle) and are cleaned off (because the teams need to practice there). By the time you’re out of work the team practice should be over, leaving you with a safe spot to go for a run.
2. Hill workout: Find a hill on your way home or close by that you’re able to run up safely – often times this may be in a neighborhood. Instead of taking a distance run, use that day to work on your strength by doing 5-10 sprints up the hill. This workout will be shorter but will really make a difference in your training, and you’ll be tired by the time you get home!
3. Tempo run: Find a safe and lit loop to that’s about a half mile long, preferably in or near your neighborhood. Run repeats of this loop, alternating between a jog and a fast run. These intervals will give you a good workout and keep you off the main roads. It will also increase your speed to help with those 5K races in the spring!
No comments:
Post a Comment