This past week, with the snow, ice and cold weather, I have been asked about how I run in this stuff and where are some safe passages.  I have ran hundreds of miles on snow packed roads without falling, which means that running on the icy roads doesn’t need to be a big stressor, nor a safety concern if you practice some sound tips.  So, here you go: Winter Running Tips by Clark

·         Dress warm, but not over dress as you don’t want the sweaty clothes to cool you down.

·         Always wear a hat.

·         Don’t forget to drink liquids.

·         When running on the roads, always run towards the traffic and run as close to the edge of the road that you can.  The footing is, mostly, better there than anywhere else on the roads, except for dry pavement or a good sanded road.

·         Run slower and keep your foot striking light.

·         Land on the center of the foot and move forward.  Landing on the heels will lead to a bad slip, as your center of gravity is behind you.  Landing mid-foot will keep your center of gravity over your feet, which is the best for traction.

·         Running down steep declines should be run with the “toe jamming” technique.  Toe jamming is where you point your toes downhill and put your weight forward, which keeps the center of gravity over the foot.  This is a great downhill running technique for trail running as well.

·         Wear clothes that will make you visible to oncoming traffic.

·         Always keep aware of oncoming traffic and realize they might not control of their automobile.

·         No, these temperatures will not freeze your lungs (I have spent too many miles running in 20 below temps), though the air is drier than what we are use to, which means you might feel a raspy throat and dry sinuses.  You can combat this by wearing a mask, scarf or bandana over your mouth and nose.  This will help you get moisture, from the breath, in your in-breath.

Routes:  these are routes that I have run this week.

·         The Loop (Turn Point and Pear Point).  The roads were really in good shape with sand.  Some areas there were some ice, but not much of a concern.  The worst part is Warbass, which is terrible.

·         Gravel Pit.  Really good around the one mile loop.  Snow to the ankle in some areas, but no traffic to worry about.  The hill on the west in is run able and adds to the workout.

·         Airport Loop.  Not bad, though some ice in parts.  Blown and drifted snow in some parts, but really not bad.

·         Argyle out toward Mullis is in good shape.

·         Most streets in town area are really bad, be very careful.