Spring Fever...(and how to avoid it)

Ahh; spring is just a few weeks away...soon time to pack away the winter garb. It’s nice to see some green and of course get reacquainted with our shadows in the evening sun. However, as is the case with race day excitement be careful not to be fooled into going too fast or doing too much too soon. Although the sun may be shining la little longer during the day be sure not to under dress and catch a chill once the sun goes down. Same goes for mileage; don’t ramp up your outdoor mileage too soon if you’ve been training indoors over the winter months...the change in surface and sudden increase in mileage can (and will) lead to injury.

In most parts of North America spring and summer will last for a few weeks; maybe even a month or two, so remember that when you try to cram a week’s worth of mileage into the first few days of spring. So; if you want to have a long and successful warm-weather running season, try to adhere to the following recommendations:

1. Keep your distances and mileage under control. You will feel great and want to run, run, run...but before you do assess your conditioning and apply the 10% rule; don’t increase mileage by more than 10% from week to week.

2. There’s no need to rush, as I said the warm weather should last more than a few days...and remember to keep your pace moderate at the outset..once you shed the outer layers you’ll want to run like the wind. As they say: Speed Kills! Don’t get sidelined before you even get started. Again; develop a spring running plan and stick to it.

3. Assess your footwear; you may need to don a pair of cross-over trail shoes if you plan to run on multiple surfaces; especially if the thaw leaves the ground soft, pot-holed and uneven. Be sure of your footing. There is a big difference between running on hard-frozen ground, snow covered sidewalks, treadmills and unfamiliar spring running surfaces. Again, be wary of your surroundings; you don’t want to be laid-up just when the going gets good!

As with most things running related moderation and pacing are key; And, just like most watches this time of year...spring forward; keep track of time and try not to run too fast.

Happy Trails!

David (F542)