Winter Running

[Aworldofmyown]

I started running in the summer and got up to a comfortable 5k before it got too cold.

Now I'm struggling a bit. I need to do maximum runs of 45mins as I have to go quite late at night. Do I continue plodding along for 45mins or would I be better to try and do faster intervals (if that makes sense!!).

Where do I go now, I don't want to lose motivation but feel a bit lost.

Can you join a running club? I'm still buzzing with post-marathon elation over a whole week later but at these temperatures there is no earthly way I could run by myself 😩 all my extremities have chilblains already

(I'll be going faster over much shorter distances)

Are there any warm up exercises we should be doing for winter running?

Firstly congratulations on getting into running, it's great isn't it!

Are you still only running five k or are you trying to increase the distance?

If you're happy to stick to 5k if put all my effort into increasing the speed, so do interval training at least twice a week, maybe Ain for half an hour split into ten minutes warm up run, then 15 minutes if intervals, then give minute cool down run to get you home.

Then at the weekend the daylight you can still do longer runs.

You can try to increase your speed if it's taking you 45 mind to do 5 k.

You could also join park run on Saturday mornings, nothing like running through a idk with 400 other people to help increase your speed!

Also, the faster you run, the warmer you will be!!

I run 4 times a week: two interval training sessions in the evenings lasting about half an hour, a park run on Saturday and a long run on Sunday ( training up to half marathon) and that is enough over winter to keep me going.

Sorry for all the typos, breastfeeding!

All the more impressive fitzbilly, don't think I knew running existed when my dcs were little!
Mixing up your runs with intervals, fartlek or hills helps you get faster, it also stops you getting bored, which is a risk if all your runs are the same, especially in the dark when there's less to look at!
If I'm doing a shorter faster run I do warm up Vanilla, otherwise it takes too long for my legs to wake up! I do some leg swings and big steps to open the hips, where you lift the knee up high in front then out to the side. I usually also do some lunges and walking calf stretches, and some side steps swinging my arms. I look a bit daft but never mind! I find it does make a difference on cold days, I was always a bit rubbish at warming up previously!

I love running in winter (apart from the loss of light). I find I start off freezing, despite ear warmers, gloves and long sleeves/tights but within 15 mins I'm well warmed up!

Much better than running in spring/summer temps where I start off warm/comfortable and just get hotter and sweating like a racehorse.

This time of year I do make sure I wear hi-viz as I'm worried that I'm not visible until the last minute. As a driver, I do encounter 'invisible runners' and it's bloody scary. I like to be seen!

Thank you emummy

Yes frickonasrick makes a good point, hi vis is essential if you're running in poorly lit places. Sometimes I use a head touch too so that dog walkers know I'm coming.

Oooh thank you, I wasn't expecting many responses so wandered off!!

I'm not cold as such (new thermal tights) I'm actually struggling with the cold air when breathing in!

I'm with my partner and we are very time restricted, currently doing between 11 and 13 minute miles. Usually running about 2.5 miles, 3 times a week.

So should I concentrate on going for a fast mile? Then fast walking then another mile? The c 2 5K gave me goals and know I'm definitely bored!!

I have a head torch, frankly I look ridiculous but you can see me!!

No no it's too cold to walk, just keep running 😮

Sadly as the park run is a Sat morning its not possible I can only do late evenings.

Wear a head tube - stops the cold air into your lungs. And if you position it right, all your warm exhaled breath goes into your top.

Yep, google 'neck gaiter'

Also make sure your breathing through your nose as it'll be softer on the lungs.
I like running in winter, it's so pretty!

Yes, PLEASE wear hi vis clothing. A friend's neighbour was killed by a van whilst out running..... no hi vis clothing, rural country lane so no street lights.....

I'm actually struggling with the cold air when breathing in!

Neck buff or scarf, billions of choices on Ebay (I have at least 15 at home) ... or Christmas is coming :).