Jan 31, 2007 Doug Kurtis Column: Running in the cold By Doug Kurtis :: Views- 239

You can't quit. "No Mas" is not an option. Before your New Year's resolution becomes a faded memory you need some incentives and the right clothing to retain your desire to stay fit. So let's find the Rocky within you.

Yes, it's dark and cold outside and sitting by the TV is so much easier. Don't do it. Reach for the phone and call a buddy to go out for a run. Plunk down some cash at the nearest fitness center and workout indoors if you must; but don't, don't, let that body fat creep up by the Ides of March.

Create a plan with a goal that you can reach in the next month, then every following month. Tape it to you bathroom mirror. Think about how you will work out today as you brush (maybe even floss) your teeth. Making entries in your calendar or log book is crucial. You have to promote fitness to yourself. Make a list of why you want to stay fit.

Developing a routine is absolutely part of the plan. Pick out days and times to move those legs. Do it right now, don’t put it off. Do you want cholesterol build up? A heart by-pass operation should not be an option. Want more energy during the day? Go running or walking, don't wait for tomorrow.

When you have attained at goal, reward yourself with a non-food item. Go to you local running store. Pick out some running gear in advance and plan to purchase it at the end of the month after you've hit your target.

You can beat cold climate, just get past the first mile. Our winter wonderland is waiting for you to discover it.

Pick running routes that allow you to run against the wind first. This will reduce the risk of hypothermia. Find a running club or a reliable partner that will provide incentives to go outside and take your mind of the freezing temperatures.

You will find some of the best scenery in the world inside our Michigan parks. And they are just waiting for you to create a trail. A lightweight pair of shoe grippers such as Get A Grip or YakTrax can make running over ice and snow possible.

Next you need the right clothing. The first objective is to wick away sweat. Cotton materials usually absorb heat and moisture leaving you wet and cold. Start with performance enhancing fabrics that will keep you dry and prevent chill as you body starts to sweat.

Layering is the key. Several lightweight shirts will keep you dryer than one heavy garment. Use two or three depending on the temperature. A number of companies make half zip tops with something like CoolMax or polypropolene to help you make adjustments as your body temperature rises.

Football players are basically wearing leg tights, so why not runners? New synthetic fabrics keep you warm and stop snow from penetrating your skin.

You lose the most heat from your ears and hands. Smart wool products work great. Mittens will keep your hands the warmest. Try an inner glove to provide options.

Water proof outer jackets made of materials like Gore-Tex have made it possible to stay warm, especially during long runs.

Finally, improve your night running by using head lamps and reflective gear that improve your visibility and make you visible.

Most talked about articles from Doug Kurtis

• Corktown's 26th Annual Run and Parade
• Turkey Trot 25 Year History
• What We Hate about Running
• Doug Goodhue National Masters Champ
• Fifth Third Bank Turkey Trot

Most Recent Articles

• Runners caught on Tape -share their marathon stories
• Tips for the Free Press Flagstar Marathon
• David Cheruiyot
• Free Press Flagstar Marathon Course Changes for 2008
• Kathrine Switzer - Marathon Woman