Monthly Archive for January, 2009

You need never have to run alone again

Published on 25/01/2009 in Inspiration and Training advice. 0 Comments

I have blogged before on writing about running, on reading about running, and also on listening to music while running.

But how about listening to runners talking about their running while they are running while you are running?

Still keeping up at the back?

Running podcasts are recorded by fellow running enthusiasts who want to share with you their latest tips, advice, racing experiences, or even just their views on life in general. You need never have to run alone again.

One such podcast is the fabulously titled ‘Running from the Reaper’ from Nigel Staffordshire, who lives on England’s south coast and is training for this year’s London Marathon.

Another is ‘A mile with me’, recorded by Steve Chopper, who talks not only about his running and racing, but about his life, as you would expect, 1 mile at a time.

Or ‘Pheddipidations’, which according to (another) Steve who produces it, is the ‘thoughts, opinions, observations and rambling diatribes composed during distance long runs from a mild mannered middle-of-the-pack distance runner, who shares the output of his cranial stimulation with his audience while training for his next marathon’.

If none of these take your fancy there are plenty of others out there. Browse the excellent websites Running Podcasts, and Podbean, or search the iTunes store, which lists well over 50 different running and fitness related podcasts and vodcasts (maybe for between runs rather than during them!).

Happy running (and listening).

Is running in cold weather good for you?

Published on 08/01/2009 in Training advice. 0 Comments

The body is brilliant at adapting to different conditions, both of terrain and temperature. And there is no doubt there is a real buzz from running in the cold. Wear the right clothing, take care underfoot and you are away.

But what happens when the weather gets really cold? Is it good for the body?

Evidence suggests that the body’s immune system and the way it converts stored glycogen and fat stores for energy use are different when its cold outside, and that the more you do of it, the better it is for you. You adapt. Click here to find out more on some of the science.

Cold comfort

Published on 08/01/2009 in Inspiration and Training advice. 0 Comments

When its cold outside its important to be wearing the right sort of running gear. Staying warm means a safe and comfortable training session.

Find out more here and here about how to cope when the going gets cold.

Staying motivated when its cold outside

Published on 08/01/2009 in Inspiration and Training advice. 0 Comments

You could say that the weather has been a little bit on the cold side for the past few weeks. And in some parts of the country that would be an understatement. Many runners love winter running. Quiet and empty streets. Cool, crisp air, and a feeling of blissful solitude. But let’s face it, it can be tough to find the motivation to reach for the trainers when it is close to zero outside, or even below. So here are just a few tips to help get you going during the deep freeze:

- try to run in your lunch breaks rather than at the beginning or end of the day. Though the daytime temperature may be only a few degrees above what it is during the night you will feel the difference. Plus it is less likely to be icy underfoot.

- warm up thoroughly before you head out of the door. Try a few star jumps and a bit of running on the spot, or head to the gym and start your run on a treadmill.

- find a friend. It can be easier to find the motivation to keep to your schedule if you can run with someone else, even if it is for just one of your weekly sessions.

Click here for more motivational tips.