Winter on the trails provides some of the best running of the year. Puddles, mud, waterfalls and, if you’re lucky, a battle against the elements that results in you feeling like you’ve been there, seen it and conquered by the time you’re peeling your wet kit off in the car, and shaking life back in to your hands. But, getting out there? It’s tough!
We rounded up some solid advice from the experts, and motivation to keep you from hitting snooze when you should be hitting the stoke button.
Well-known trail star and running coach, Nic de Beer, has some great advice.
“The difficult runs make you stronger, and improve your discipline. Getting out when it is dark and cold, fighting a head wind or driving rain… those are the sessions that make you a stronger runner. It is always worth it, and you’ll see the improvements in your performance. With the right winter gear it won’t be so bad. Always reward yourself after a tough session. Hot coffee, a good breakfast, and get warm as soon as you are off the trail. If your motivation is low, remember that you’re not alone in that. Plan long weekend runs with friends and motivate each other to keep going through winter.”
Speaking of the right winter gear, we caught up with Grant Bryant of RUN Store on Bree Street, Cape Town to find out what all the cool kids are wearing in the cold. Grant recommends kicking the winter running season off with a few spoils to push you out of the front door. His top winter gear right now:
“A tape sealed waterproof jacket is tops. Go for one that is breathable, and light weight. RUN stocks a great one by Asics, and another popular option by Ultimate Direction.
Trail shoes that perform well in muddy conditions can make or break your winter training and racing. Ensure that you have the right pair fitted for you. The New Balance MT910v3 is referred to in store as “Shredder”. This beast features a HydroHesion rubber outsole for grip in the wet, while the Rock Stop rock plate in the forefoot protects your food from gnarly objects and bruising.
Its dark out there, don’t be afraid of lighting yourself up like a roadblock on a Friday in Benoni. Wear reflective gear, quality headlamps, and don’t forget to pack the emergency space blanket just in case. You’ll need a good running pack for all that, so chat to the experts about one that works for you.
A thermal base layer is also key to winter trail enjoyment, as is a good pair of running gloves (the ones that great aunty Barbs knitted won’t do) and a beanie or, better, winter specific Buff®.”
Of course the Wildrunner team has plenty of great races lined up to keep your winter gees going. Race 4 of the Spur Gauteng Winter Trail Series® is tomorrow, and there are late entries available from 6:30am. The Cape Winter Trail Series is just weeks away, and we’re heading to Port Elizabeth and KZN soon, too. Enter online and obliterate the winter blues before they even begin.
Step up to the Mountain Challenge Series with Helderberg and Marloth still coming up. Nothing like a big red circle around race day on your calendar to encourage you.
Now that you have all you need to stay motivated, we’ll end as the voice of reason.
It’s what you do in the dark that makes you shine in the light! Be safe out there.