Run Into Spring: How to Get Race-Ready for the Warmer Weather
With our harsh Canadian winters, it’s little wonder why everyone is buzzing about spring. It’s great to get back outdoors again, especially for those that love running. If you’ve been hiding indoors on the treadmill to keep up your fitness so you don’t spin out on patches of ice, you’re probably chomping at the bit to hit the real pavement.
Perhaps you’ve even signed up for a race or two as well. However, if you run right into spring training, you can hurt yourself if you don’t take a few steps to do so safely.
1. Go over your gear
As any runner knows, your sneakers are essential for your best run. Check your sneakers over for damage to the tread or any other signs of wear. Don’t go running in old shoes. While treadmills are forgiving, the pavement is far less so. Besides, if you need new shoes, it will certainly inspire you to go running all the more if you’re excited about a new pair.
2. Protect your skin
Forgot about that sunscreen while stuck indoors all winter, did you? Even though it’s not quite scorching outside, that’s no excuse not to keep your skin safe. Wear the right clothing to keep you protected and slather SPF on any exposed portions of your skin.
3. Be gradual as you increase your mileage
Don’t get as excited as a dog that has just been offered a walk at the park when it’s time to run outdoors in spring. You don’t want an overuse injury because you were too eager. Take it easy as you train with variety in workouts that go from slow and low. Build it up steadily to more miles and work in interval training too.
4. Think about joining a race
Training for a race is a great way to get back to the old running grind. Look for shorter races that will help you get back to your routine. It creates accountability and gives you smaller goals to work up to. No real races in your area? Find a virtual one and you’ll still feel that need to be accountable!
5. Make an appointment with your physiotherapist
While it’s important if you’ve had an injury before, even if you’ve never suffered from one, it’s wise to meet up with your physiotherapist. They can help you get your muscle groups ready and primed for harder runs. For the long run, it’s so important to make sure your body is ready to take on this kind of action. You’ll learn exercises that maximize range of motion and have you moving more freely too.
Don’t have a physiotherapist? Let In Your Home Therapy send one to your home when it’s convenient for you! Our experts physiotherapists can help you work through old injuries and prevent new ones as you get ready to run into spring.
