A winter marathon is a run/ walk activity which takes place during the cold season of the year. Training for a winter run requires a lot of hard work and tough preparations. One has to consider many things before enrolling for a winter marathon. It includes picking the right kind of clothes to keep you warm and comfortable as well as getting rid of viral or any cold-related illness. On the other hand, the utmost important part of a winter run is to focus on your speed and not get tired immediately. Cold weather generally encompasses extreme winds, ice, temperature and sometimes precipitation. Therefore, you have to keep yourself ready to train in harsh and cold weather. Although, the level of cold depends on your locality and so the preparation needs to be done accordingly. Let’s have a look at some tips to ease your preparations.
1. Pick the Right Running Clothes:
Although it is important to make outdoor running habits essential you have to be ready to take indoor running into consideration. In the case of adverse weather i.e., excessive snowfall, cold winds. Therefore, the winter run should always have an alternate option which can be a treadmill. Furthermore, you can use your apartment or parking space to perform various cardio and running activities. Don’t let the indoor run make you feel lazy and too much comfortable. Therefore, get back to track once the weather becomes normal.
2. Consider Indoor Running Options:
Although it is important to make outdoor running habits essential you have to be ready to take indoor running into consideration. In the case of adverse weather i.e., excessive snowfall, cold winds. Therefore, the winter run should always have an alternate option which can be a treadmill. Furthermore, you can use your apartment or parking space to perform various cardio and running activities. Don’t let the indoor run make you feel lazy and too much comfortable. Therefore, get back to track once the weather becomes normal.
3. Join Running Groups:
Every runner should get involved in running activities that will help him to prepare for his winter marathon. Joining running groups will help you stay motivated and engaged in running activities. Accordingly, you can push yourself and stay accountable for your progress. This will give you a reason to stay active and avoid being lazy throughout the winter season.
4. Stay Hydrated:
It is important to keep yourself hydrated during the winter season. It is often believed that people need to stay hydrated during the summer season, which is true, but staying hydrated in the winter season is also important. People usually avoid intake of water and don’t realize that they are thirsty in the cold season as it becomes harder. Therefore, make sure that you consume water as much as required.
5. Make a Training Plan:
The sudden change in weather can harm your preparation. Always check with weather conditions in your locality. If there is a chance of extreme wind or a fall in temperature then change your running plan accordingly. Sticking to a schedule will help you to continue and follow your training. Don’t delay or postpone your schedule until any emergency. Following a training plan will help you to reach your abilities and goals. Sticking to your plan will help you stay motivated and hence you won’t skip any days to run.
6. Utilizing Proper Gears:
It is important to have proper winter gear along with the right running clothes. If you are a marathon runner in a locality which faces extreme snowfall then you should definitely get spike or traction accessories for your shoes. You can also get gloves or winter caps to protect yourself from the wind.
7. Run in Loops:
Running in a loop will give you the sense and feel of running in a marathon. Decide your run-in loops or segments if you finding difficult to run on a jog or running path. This will help you to decide the speed and time required to complete a particular set. Accordingly, you will also develop mental strength and focus to achieve the goals.