January 16, 2013

Hello Winter...

Just a reminder that we meet every Wednesday, regardless of temperature, at 6 p.m. at the corner of 11th and Holly.   This week is Run #3: Musica.  This is our only out and back route, meaning that you can make it as long or as short as you want.   The entire run (all the way to the musica statue and back) is over 6 miles, but if you want to make the run shorter here are two landmarks: over the pedestrian bridge and back is 4 miles, and out to Demonbreun and 8th and back is about 5 miles.

Below is the route created by architect Josh Gruner.  Amazing.

Route #3

What to wear, what to wear...

In the south, your running attire is usually going to be shorts and a t-shirt (or less), making choosing what to wear pretty easy.  But when the weather gets colder, it's a little bit more complicated.  You want to be warm, but in order to avoid being cold, many people will overdress on these colder days.  My rule of thumb is to dress as though you are going for a hike in weather that is 20 degrees warmer.   So for example, if it is 40 degrees outside, dress in what you would wear on a hike in 60 degree weather.  You may be a little chilly at the start, but once you get going you'll be perfect.

Take that for what it's worth, and here are a couple more suggestions:

1) Wind and rain change everything.  Especially when you are going into the wind.  In the wind or rain, layers are essential.   A short sleeve shirt over a long sleeve shirt (as opposed to long-sleeve over short-sleeve) is a great go to combination.

2) On a cold night, your body will cool off very quickly after a run.  Always have a dry sweatshirt to put on after a cold run.

3) Cold weather technical running clothes are amazing, but not necessary.  (Just check out what immaterial John is wearing!)  But if you do want to treat yourself, go see the folks at NRC, Fleet Feet or Lululemon and they can suggest something that can keep you warm in almost any weather conditions.

4) Keep your head and hands warm.  As far as hands go, an old pair of socks works well for me!

5) If your shoes get wet, remove the insole and CRAM them full of newspaper. (Does anyone actually get a newspaper anymore??) The next morning, the newspaper will be soaking wet, and the shoes will be bone dry.

Thursday workouts

Remember, if you want to improve your fitness and running IQ, join us on Thursday nights at 6 pm at the corner of 11th and Holly.  This week we will continue with our hill repeats down at the pedestrian bridge.  Download the 1/2 marathon training guide if you want to full list of workouts.  If you have any questions, please email Valisa Thayer or Michaela Poizner at michaela.poizner@gmail.com or valisa.berber.thayer@gmail.com.

ENFL

Mark

Wednesday RunsMark