How To Run In the Cold

The weather in Connecticut recently has been very cold, with temperatures last Friday in the sub-zeros. If you're a runner, getting up the courage and muster to run in that kind of cold can be difficult. You don't want to break your routine, but how is it possible to run with temperatures that cold?
Here are some tips from Runner's World about running in sub-zero temperatures:

• Avoid cotton clothing as it's terrible when it's wet and cold. Look for clothing that is synthetic. 
• Dress in layers and have an outer windproof layer that is made of breathable fabric.
• A hood on the shell top controls body temperature.
• Wear a stocking hat or balaclava.
• Wear mittens.
• Invest in a cold weather running shoe. This shoe needs to be able to break the wind and keep your feet dry. If you stick with a warm weather running shoe, purchase a vapor barrier sock or gator that covers your shoe and ankle as the sole of the shoe stiffens.
• For proper traction, run in trail shoes or YakTrax. 
• Avoid "genital nip" by covering up those areas with a vapor barrier. 
• Limit sweating by ventilation.
• Wear eye protection, either with goggles or glasses.
• Dress to be seen- wear colorful, contrasting, and reflective clothes.
• Bring with you a flashing light for nighttime and give plenty of room to cars so they can pass.
• Drink lots of fluids.
• Carry your cell phone with you.
• Run with a buddy- makes your run go by even faster, and it's a great bonding hobby.
• Tell someone about your route and anticipated time of return. 

If you are a runner with a foot or ankle problem, call our Rocky Hill or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Jeffrey S. Kahn, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Medicine Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Rocky Hill and Middletown, CT
Visit our website, follow my tweets on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook.