With many sidewalks and road shoulders covered with snow and ice, the treadmill may seem like one of the few alternatives to getting in a good run.  Snowshoeing can give you a workout similar to running yet enable you to get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of Michigan's parks and trails. 

The adjustment from running to snowshoe running isn't difficult.  It requires a slight change in stride and it will seem like a lot more effort at first. Snowshoeing burns 500-1000 calories depending on snow conditions and terrain. Snowshoeing can be devoid of traffic and slush while offering an enlightened experience with nature and more pristine views than running can offer during the winter.

In deep snow, you don't want the front edge of your shoe to hit the snow.  This will require lifting the shoe higher and more arm swing unless you use ski poles.  Wooden framed skis can help you in deep snow but metal lighter weight snowshoes are more likely to be used in lower Michigan where snow is lighter or packed. 

First timers might want to make sure your bindings are snug and adjusted after a short warm up. Regular winter running clothes and shoes will work fine but don't overdress, because you heat up fast.  If you snowshoe with a friend make sure you take turns breaking the trail in fresh snow and take a few breaks too.

A few techniques you might want to remember are: On uphills, push your toes directly into the snow or try the herringbone method of traversing at a 45 degree angle. Traversing or switchbacking can help immensely on hard packed snow while climbing a hill.  Traversing also works well when going downhill except that you will want to put your weight on the back of your snowshoes. Using your poles, you can also try a reverse, similar to a snowboarding spin if you still have the energy.

There are several brands of snowshoes that are great for running.  Crescent Moon is the first manufacturer to design a snowshoe to fit the body mechanics of women, not just a smaller version of a man's shoe.  Prices start at $169. They have two women's models with prices starting at $169 and also a kids shoe starting at $79. Tubbs has several models to choose from, as does Red Feather. 

With our long winter season the snowshoe should be a standard part of a runner's equipment.  Purchasing adjustable poles can also increase balance and stability, particularly on steep terrain.  Regular running shoes should work fine with your snowshoe and be strapped in a way that offers flexibility yet control.  Breathable water repellant Gaiter booties worn over your running shoes will keep you warm and save your shoes.  Don't forget a good micro fleece cap and mittens for warmth too.

Next weekend in Traverse City is the sixth annual Subaru Women's Ski Tour.  It's a celebration of women, winter and chocolate.  The tour also donates over $13,000 to local charities.  The two day event offers ski clinics, gourmet food, coffee and wine plus great entertainment on Union Street.  If you are a previous tour skier bring a friend and sign up for the Klister Sisters $10 discount. Go to http://www.womensskitour.com/new/traverse_city for more information.