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Wear The Right Gear For Running In Winter

Winter running can be just as exhilarating as running in the warmer months, as long as you remember to pay attention to a few details which will help you thrive in the cold weather. All the major running brands now offer their own ranges of cold weather running clothing, so you shouldn't have any reason to sit at home and pile on the pounds when the wintertime comes.

Losing grip and having a nasty fall is one of the major problems that often worries people when they first consider running in the winter. This is why it is a good idea to have at least two pairs of running shoes: a normal pair for all your road running in the dry, and a separate pair of trail running shoes for use off road or when it is wet or muddy. Snow and ice are an even bigger problem if you get those kinds of conditions where you live. A good option is to invest in a pair of traction devices, for example Yaktrax, which easily attach to the bottoms of your regular running shoes and grip the icy ground as you run.

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Once you have your shoes sorted out, the next main concern is keeping warm while out running. The best option is to layer several lightweight garments rather than going out with a single heavy warm coat. A thin base layer or compression shirt is great, in combination with your regular running jersey. This will usually be enough as you'll warm up while exercising. However, if you are out in the snow, then it is also advisable to wear a waterproof third layer, such as a breathable running jacket. It is also important to ensure all your layers are able to wick moisture from the surface of your skin, to keep you dry and warm effectively in the cold weather.

When you are running, your legs will warm up pretty quickly, so it is simply a matter of personal choice whether you stick with a pair of shorts in winter, or whether you go for something which covers the full length of your legs. In snow, it is probably wiser to choose full-length garments, such as tights or tracksters, both of which are very light in weight and allow moisture to escape. A pair of heavy cotton jogging pants might not be such a good idea though because their weight will slow you down and use up valuable energy.

The final consideration is those accessories which you never need in the summer, but which are heavenly in the winter. They include a lightweight pair of gloves and a running beanie to keep your hands and head well protected from the icy winds.

If you make sure you are properly prepared with the correct attire, you will be able to go and run whatever the weather, and be fit and lean for the next racing season in spring. To learn more about what to wear for your winter running, visit Triathonline.com.

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Posted in: Uncategorized by on December 8, 2011 @ 6:31 pm

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