Tips To Stay Safe On Winter Runs

Have a plan. Before you think about heading out on a run, make a plan. Determine how many miles you want to run that day, the route and an estimated time of return. If you live with someone tell them your plan, this ensure that is anything does go wrong someone will know and have an idea of where to look. If you don't live with someone, call someone and tell them to expect to hear from you by a certain time. Anyone who has ever watched the show I Shouldn't Be Alive knows that sharing your plan with someone can save you from a disaster. Take routes that are familiar to you and safe. Run on roads traveled by cars that have large shoulders and even terrain. No one wants to fall into a hole that is covered by snow or can't be seen in the dark.

Run with a buddy. When it is possible, run with someone else. Running with a partner or group isn't just fun, but far safer. It's always good to have someone there to help you stay motivated, but having someone there can also save a lot of turmoil if the worst happens. I like to ask my friends that look strong enough to carry me home in case I slip on ice.

Dress for success. This may be one of the most important tips on the list. Winter conditions can be extremely dangerous for runners. It is important to dress to stay warm and dry. It is important to dress warm, but not too warm. If you are already warm before you begin your workout, than you are most likely over dressed. Wear layers that can be easily removed while running to allow your body temperature to rise. Wear a layer to block the elements such as pants or tights.  Try to wear fabrics that wick away moisture from the skin like performance tees. Lastly, think about your socks. They are an often overlooked part of an outfit but when you are going out in wet, cold conditions it is crucial. Don't wear ankle socks, go with a higher sock. Shorter socks will allow snow and wetness not only into your shoe but up your pant legs. Having cold wet feet and pants is the absolute worst feeling and dangerous.

Accessorize for safety.  During these upcoming next few weeks and months, we will be seeing less and less daylight. It is important to dress so that cars can see you. Always wear clothes that contrast your environment. This means if you are running at noon the day after a snowfall, don't wear white and, never wear dark colors in the dark. Try to wear bright reflective clothing. When running in the dark it is extremely important to wear clothing that can easily be seen from a distance. It is best to over do it on the accessories here. I recommend investing in some of our LightGUIDE LED lights. They are light bands made for either your arm, wrist or waist. These lights strobe in bright colors and are easily seen. They also available for bikes, strollers and dogs which is a must have if you go out in the dark with your best buddy. You should also wear a hat with some soft of light on it. This helps you to see where you are going as well as have people see you coming. 

Be aware of your surroundings. It is important to stay safe on the upcoming runs in the dark. Make sure to accessorize to be seen and for yourself to be aware of your surroundings. First of all let me just lay down the law, you always run going against traffic. This is so that you can see the cars coming towards you, you can't rely on the driver to see you. It is also important not to wear headphones. I know this is heartbreaking because running to music is so much more fun, but especially in the dark, you need to be able to hear cars coming. If you really can't survive a silent run then use technology to your advantage and play it through the speaker of your phone or iPod. I noticed with my iPhone the speaker is easily over powered by the sound of passing cars.

Adapt for the season. In these colder conditions, it is important to take extra time warming up. Not only is it uncomfortable to run when your muscles are stiff, but it increases the risk of injury. Take time on cold mornings to really stretch and start off your run slow. It is also important to stay hydrated. Usually people stress drinking a lot of water in the warm months, but it is just as important in the cold. Make sure that you force yourself to drink water and stay hydrated.

Play it safe. The best tip I may be able to give is, use your judgement. During winter don't go out for a run if it has just snowed, is snowing or is too icy. No matter how prepared you are running in dangerous conditions, is still dangerous and risky. Missing runs due to a snow storm is inevitable. If you have the option run on a treadmill instead, they may not be as fun, but it's better than slipping on ice and missing your spring season due to a broken leg!

Now get ready because winter is almost here! We are actually have snow in our forecast tomorrow! Do you have any great tips for winter runs? Or tips for safe runs? Tell us here or on Facebook. You can now also follow us on Instagram ( @goneforarun ) and share photos with us, just add #goneforarun