With all of the hustle and bustle the holiday season has the tendency to take up all our time and provide us with half-ass excuses on why we can afford to miss a run, a fitness class or a routine gym workout. Now I’m not advocating that we throw caution to the wind and run in minus 30 degrees Celsius, or slip and slide over ice caked sidewalks...but I am suggesting that it is always a good idea to maintain your running base with a lighter and less time consuming running and/or training program; think of it as calorie reduced training or running-lite.
Training consistency is a difficult proposition at the best of times; but over the holidays it is shuffled up and down an ever-changing list of reprioritized events and things to do. Difficult; Yes; impossible: No. If you plan to run in any spring races you need to commit to running throughout the winter months...even if you adopt a Run-Lite program it will be easier to achieve your training milestones once the weather starts to warm up...it will also help to keep the weight off over the holidays and act as a great stress reliever when too much good cheer and togetherness starts to wear thin. Another sure fire way to maintain your motivation is to sign up for a holiday race; just about every city has a Santa Shuffle or an equivalent race; or better yet a New Year’s Eve; or New Year’s day Resolution Run. What could be better than “Out with old and in with a new YOU!” But even better yet why not go for gold and sign up for a race in February or March..,the Hypothermic Half Marathon comes to mind and does its best to bring out the hardcore runner in everyone who decides to train for it. In the end it’s up to you to decide on what motivates you; join a running club; get out for a spin with friends and enjoy the challenge and the rewards of running in winter. You’ll quickly find out that there is something soothing about being outside and running in the quiet that follows a light dusting of snow...and when you look back you will see your foot prints and yours alone; a testament to your commitment in doing your best to become all that you want to be.
No matter what you decide to do, winter running can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors, have fun with your running buddies, maintain your training and above all help you achieve your goals
Run Strong! (and remember to wear a hat!)Happy Holidays from David & Karen at FITNESSfive42
