My training for the Boston Marathon with Team Stonyfield starts right after the holidays, so I am getting ready for 16 weeks of preparation. (I still can’t believe I am running Boston. Ahhh! It’s a dream come true!) Up until now, I haven’t encountered any super cold weather””just one run in the low 30s and I survived””so now I am really trying to psych myself up for running in the cold New England weather. (I plan to do the majority of my runs””if not all”” outside.) That said, here’s my game plan for getting ready for winter running!
Putting some races on my calendar
I’m looking at a few road races to put on my calendar to keep me motivated throughout the winter. Racing is a lot of fun and they can double as long runs! On the top of my list: Hyannis Half Marathon + Black Cat 20-miler. Local peeps: Any other races that I should consider?
Signing up for an outdoor running challenge””with a group!
I signed up for the Marathon Sports Winter Warrior Challenge with some lovely ladies from KFIT. The Challenge is to run (or walk) OUTSIDE every day for 31 days in January. Having some buddies to run with and knowing that people on my team are running outside too will push me to get moving as well.
Literally gearing up
Having the right gear for winter running makes it so much more bearable! I remember training for my first marathon in December and January and having no idea how to dress for my runs. Once I figured it out, I was so much happier out in the cold. (Side note: It’s been awhile, so I’m trying to figure out what gear works best for me now, so I’ll share my favorites in a post in the coming weeks.)
Mentally minimizing the cold weather (aka “don’t be a wuss”)
Mal’s favorite advice to me (with regard to a lot of things in life, actually) is “don’t be a wuss.” When you think about winter training, it’s JUST a little bit of cold weather, ya know? It’s not like it’s the end of the world. I just need to mentally minimize the effects of the cold weather when I am thinking about running outside. And then, of course, think warm thoughts!
Just doing it
I’ve already thought about my method for getting out the door when it’s really cold outside: Get dressed, throw my outer layer of clothing in the dryer, when warm: put them on, and then literally run out of the door of my house in the cold. JUST DO IT! No looking back! Haha! I figure if I’m semi-warm and running, I’ll warm up in no time!
Question of the Day
What are your tips and tricks for training in cold weather? I’d LOVE to hear from those of you who have trained for a marathon in the winter months!
P.S. Check out my Q&A on the Stonyfield Blog: Stonyfield’s Boston Marathon Team: Meet Tina from Carrots N’ Cake!
