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Don’t let cold weather put a damper on your running routine. Winter running is a great way to alleviate seasonal stress and stifle guilt over extra holiday calories.   Here are some simple guidelines set out by David Harris, Equinox’s National Director of Personal Training, to keep you running strong throughout the holiday season and well into the New Year.

    “Most heat escapes through the top of your head,” according to Harris. “So a warm hat is a must. Dress in layers to retain heat and wear breathable clothing to avoid over-perspiring. Try to decrease the bulk of the clothing as this can add additional weight that can slow you down and make running awkward and inefficient.”

Other tips from Harris:

    *Make sure you get an adequate warm up and pre-run stretch, this raises
     the body temperature and limbers the muscles and connective tissue in
     preparation for the run.

    *Stretch thoroughly after you run. As your body temperature decreases
     muscles may tighten.  Take advantage of your body’s natural heat and
     stretch the muscles while still pliable.

    *Fuel up on healthy foods or snacks a few hours before; simple fruit
     sugars (fresh fruit, dried fruit, etc.) are best, digest quickly and
     convert to usable workout fuel quickly.

    *Cover all your extremities including your ears.

    *Mittens are warmer than gloves. Either way, make sure your hands are
     covered.  Frostbite attacks extremities first.
It may be cold outside but there’s no need to put the brakes on when it
comes to winter running!

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