As winter winds down I wanted to pass on what I have learned this snowy winter about training on the snowy trails. I have spent the winter in Aspen, Colorado, a place with plenty of snow and many winter distractions, but I have nevertheless endeavored to keep in some sort of running shape. I do this to ease my launch into more serious training come spring.
We have had a quite cold winter, with typically variable weather conditions, but I have kept up at least one 6-plus-mile run per week. Running at an 8,000 feet elevation has its own pressures. However, that will also have its payback when I return to running at sea level after winter, hence is not really a concern.
Here are my five main takeaway points for anyone spending the winter in a snowy zone, and a little hesitant to get out and run:
Run whenever you can: Activities like skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking are great cross-training and most enjoyable but no substitute for real running
Snow-packed trails can be safe for running: I ran regularly all winter in ordinary running shoes on trails used by bicycles and pedestrians
Pick your days: Avoid the icy freeze-after-thaw days
Pick your trails: Paved trails cleared of snow by the authorities can be excellent, and some unmaintained trails might be fine too
Do not fear the cold: Just dress appropriately; I found it most important to have warm gloves, and ear cover helps; otherwise nothing is very different to spring or fall running.
Wherever you are, get out and run now, and do it through every winter!
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