Archive | Winter

Thankful for Winter Running

Sometimes we complain about the cold but here is better way to think about running in winter . . .

This shoutout was posted on LinkedIn by one of our coaching clients, Kathy LeMay from Massachusetts (where it gets really cold!).

Kathy LeMay

“Thanks to Coach Jennifer and MTA I’ve kept to my running plan designed by Jen in “feels like -11″, snow squalls and with an ice-covered face. I’ve been given the tools, tips and strategies to stay strong, safe and healthy. They’ve reminded me how lucky I am to be able to run, to absorb winter’s quiet, see roads I would not have traveled and meet neighbors I wouldn’t otherwise have met.

I’ve benefitted from the kindness of drivers who’ve seen me coming down winding roads and who’ve given me a little extra space (it means so much) and grateful for the waves from mail carriers, UPS and Fed Ex delivery drivers and the good folks fixing phone lines and downed wires. And, I’ve literally been stopped in my tracks by frozen waterfalls, sheets of ice trying to break and move down rivers, and the Earth in hibernation.

Here’s to the coaches who help us see that which has always been there: our potential and the world around us.” -Kathy LeMay

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Reflections on a Dark, Muddy Trail Marathon

My headlamp light was a DNF casualty a mile into the race. Fortunately, my Run Lites gloves kept the trail illuminated for the next four hours, allowing me to finish.

By Henry Howard

In the days leading up to the Winter Night Trail Marathon outside Indianapolis, Indiana, the forecast consistently called for freezing rain and/or rain.

But about 24 hours before the race on Jan. 14, the forecast changed. No precipitation and temperatures around 30 for the race. I figured my luck was changing and felt good heading into the race.

When I picked up my bib an hour before the race, I saw that it was number 300 — a perfect score in bowling. Another good omen, I thought. That thought would disappear soon after the 6 p.m. race start. Continue Reading →

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How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Like the Treadmill

treadmillRunning on the machine offers up some benefits when it gets too cold or icy to be out on the roads or trails.

By Henry Howard

OK, so I couldn’t actually justify using the word “love” in the headline as was used in the Dr. Strangeglove movie title that gave me the inspiration for this story.

But I did find that running on the treadmill was actually palatable during bitter winter days or when sidewalks and roads still had icy spots.

Not as enjoyable mind you as an outdoor run in spring or fall when the temperature feels just right. And certainly not as enjoyable as an invigorating trail run. Continue Reading →

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Maintaining Fitness in the Winter Months

running in the snow

Amy Will making tracks on a cold wintry day.

Staying motivated through the winter is challenging and this winter I’m doing my best to battle cabin fever.

The cold temps and shortened spans of daylight can really sap motivation. Where I live, we have what I will call a “seasonal imbalance” where winter consumes half of the year. Staying inside and being sedentary for six months just isn’t an option. Despite my dislike for the winter, I make the best of the season.

Here are a few tips to stay fit when it’s freezing: Continue Reading →

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Running in the Cold Without Killing Yourself

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Cold weather can be depressing if you’re stuck inside all the time.

Running can be a great way to get out of the house, boost your mood, increase your energy level, and stay in shape.

However, you need to be more careful to have a safe and enjoyable running experience in cold weather.

Here are some things to consider before hitting the road. Continue Reading →

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