New Year is traditionally a time to start a new fitness program or set health goals for the coming twelve months. In reality icy pavements and cold weather stop many resolutions being fulfilled before a shiny new trainer steps outside the front door. To help make the transition to outdoor running easier this winter the experts at Fitness First have provided some priceless tips to help you conquer the cold and work towards completing the Cancer Research UK London Winter Run on Sunday 1st February. With very limited places still available this is your chance to achieve a New Year’s fitness goal.
The inaugural Cancer Research UK London Winter Run will see thousands hitting the closed roads of Central London to complete 10 km past dozens of instantly recognisable landmarks. Over 13,000 people have already signed up to take part in this unique event that features three spectacular Snow-Zones, a Swiss Winter Wonderland and even Polar Bears on hugging duty at the finish line.
In addition to their special training advice the Fitness First team will be on hand at the start line on 1 February, and are planning to create an unforgettable pre race warm up that includes dozens of giant snowballs. After the run they will be helping all the competitors cool down properly, and will be offering advice on the next steps to keep motivated and fit after the event.
Fitness First experts constructed the following special tips for those training for the Cancer Research UK London Winter Run this January:
Balance indoor and outdoor runs – When temperatures drop low or snow is piling up opt to play it safe and get out the treadmill. But when the weather is working to your favour, aim for two or more runs per week during the early afternoon when it’s the warmest and there’s more light. Avoid icy or snow packed paths as running in few inches of snow will offer better traction and cushion. Always keep in mind that you potentially burn more calories in the cold since your body works harder to stay warm.
Ditch your regular running shoes – Regular running shoes won’t provide you with the traction you need when slush and black ice cover the ground. Instead of chancing it, grab a pair of running shoes with thick traction or tread that will hold up in the winter months. The shoe may be heavier, but as the winter isn’t a time to hard-core train, the weight won’t be an issue.
Extend your warm-up – Make sure to take a longer warm-up than you normally do during the warmer months. This will help the muscles ease into your run and prevent tears or pulls. If your usual warm-up takes about ten minutes before leading you into your full stride, try working it up to 15 or even 20 minutes.
Gear-up – The equipment you use while training is just as important as the actual training plan itself. Wearing running tights will help to keep the legs warmer and if it’s icy buy a traction device to attach onto the shoes for extra grip against slipping. Wearing gloves, hat or headband will keep you warm. Tip – keep a bag with an extra pair of socks, water and anything else you may need for your run.
The run aims to raise a huge sum for Cancer Research UK, so they can continue their life saving work to help beat cancer sooner. It is backed by London Mayor Boris Johnson, Commissioner for Sport Kate Hoey, and BBC Sports Personality of the Year finalist Jo Pavey.
Limited places still remain, however the event is expected to reach its full capacity before the deadline of 26th January at 9pm. Visit www.londonwinterrun.co.uk to sign up and help freeze cancer in its tracks.
