...but it is so warm and comfy, here in the Corner. Nearly time to get out my Winterval cushions and go foraging for a few more logs for the fire.
Slip off your shoes and come on in, grab a cushion, you are very welcome
The weather, certainly where I am, has turned. The days are getting shorter and today, we are on the first meteorological day of Winter! I ran yesterday and it was, foggy, and chilly. Cold nose and cold fingers . Toes were fine, but I was really glad to get home
I wear layers, I wear half finger gloves, ( arthritis in a few joints) and always my hat and my BUFF ! I dress for the weather, but accept that as the run goes on, I will feel warmer.
So, this got me thinking again. Oh no! I hear you... she is thinking... again!
Well , this is what I thought. As the weather does, for many of us begin to feel a tad chillier, we do need, sensibly to think about what we should wear for our runs.
Okay. Things to consider!
Firstly...
Make sure that you are warm when you set out. Add a few degrees to the actual outdoor temperature, too.
You need to be warm enough, but not too warm !
You'll feel cooler when you begin and warm up as you go on ,
But, do take wind-chill into consideration too ! The wind can make a huge difference to your run!
Maybe increase the warm-up. and shorten the cool down, (do that inside).
Layers are key
A base layer is a great idea... and sometimes compression gear can be ideal. It's thin, so you can add more layers and then a sweat-wicking top. You stay dry and warm and not sweaty and cold!
Your next layers of clothing should be for warmth too. Something that you can unzip or even take off. You might feel this is too much, but if it is very cold, or like me, you feel the cold a tad more, it can be useful.
The Right Shoes...the Right Socks
It sounds daft, but your shoes and the grip too are important... I avoid ice at all costs. But if you are determined to get out there.. then ice grips are always an option. YakTrax for one
The socks too are important, sweat-wicking, and warm... ! I have double layer winter ones... loads to choose from out there.
Now, my personal favourite, keep warm areas;
Head, hands and for me, neck!
I have a cap...big brim for rain, sun and snow. I have a thermal beanie for cold and a lightweight balaclava for under my cap, if it is sunny and COLD!
Thermal gloves with touchscreen fingertips Or half finger thermal gloves.
My Buff, (other makes available), keeps out draughts, drips, snowflakes and cold !
Post- run.
Get home quickly, out of any wet gear and into a warm shower. If you have a way to get home... make sure you stay warm with a warm drink and add another layer.
Okay., there are just some ideas , for staying warm.
This all sounds really over the top, (I have a vivid imagination), but, when we start this programme, we want to get the runs in, get the weeks done and get to the podium. We may be too over enthusiastic and forget about taking care of ourselves.
I know now, that when I completed C25K in 2015, I was maybe lucky... it was a milder but wet winter, and I was not wearing the gear I have accumulated over the years since... I know better now.
So.... here we are... !
December begins and I know from your posts last week, that many of you are out there, running well and heading for your goals! I just like the idea of us all staying safe and warm
We want to hear how it is going and any tips you may have for keeping warm in the days that may follow!
Sit a while here, where it is warm, and share . Looking forward to reading your replies x
Oldfloss xx
PS
We are all different... and what works for me may not be right for you... I am also a fair bit older than many of you too! Listen to your body ! x