Winter Training

As the weather gets cooler, and the races dry up, it gets tempting to give in to cut back on the winter workouts.

After all, as this NYT article spells out, it's harder to run when it's wet and cold.

Umm. No. Don't give in.

Yes, it's not always pleasant when it's snowing and cold out. But prepare beforehand, and the running is simply balmy.

Think about it: Can you imagine a snowy run on the usually heavily populated Brooklyn Bridge or Prospect Park? I've done both, and it's absolutely beautiful, especially with much, much fewer people.

Admittedly, it's harder to get motivated when it's frigid outside, and you don't have races in mind to spur you on. But now's the perfect time to start planning the races for early 2010 and next spring.

Now, it's possible that we might have a place indoors to train (instead of just a treadmill) this winter. But it's definitely worth it to a) keep the training going and b) keep yourself motivated as December and January approach. Build a base, and get ready for spring.