Top tips for Autumn Running
Any change of season takes a bit of getting used to and can interrupt a training schedule. In this case, the darker mornings and evenings, temperatures cooling and more wet and windy weather can act to put us off our stride. But there are also gorgeous colours, bright mornings and mild temperatures. Here are some tips to help you re-find your mojo and keep running through
1. Find a group to run with. No matter what the weather you know that there will be someone else turning up and you don’t want to miss out. This will also ensure that you can follow a route/session with a qualified leader and you don’t have to make your own plans.
2. Get a running coach. This could be for one to one sessions, to create your own running schedule or to help with injury prevention/rehabilitation and overall strength. If you’ve made the investment you are more likely to stick with it, and it’s difficult to disappoint a coach with poor excuses
3. Rest. Sleep in general is important for our bodies and particularly at this time of year it’s important to flow with the season and ensure you are getting enough rest. This will enable your body to recover from any hard training sessions so you can take on more.
4. Enter an event. There are many virtual events as well as some real events happening. This can help give a focus and will reward consistent effort.
5. Dress for the weather. Remember that you will warm up once you are running so don’t overdress when you start out. It can be cooler at this time of year and if the wind is strong it will feel harder to keep warm – layers work well and can be adjusted.
6. Warm up. Of course we always warm up before our runs…but at this time of year it is more important than ever. You can perform some running drills and dynamic stretches before you leave the house to make sure you are ready to run when you step outside.
7. Be safe, be seen. Try and wear bright colours, reflective clothing and a light if you are running in the dark. It’s a small effort but so important to stay safe even on street-lit pavements.
8. Don’t forget self care. Don’t try and do too much. Keep all your commitments balanced – a stressful time at work will detract from your running. For any aches, pains or niggles – or just for some deep relaxation – book a deep tissue massage. Soft tissue therapists can help identify any risks of injury and advise on prevention.
For advice, coaching and bespoke training plans, get in touch. For deep tissue massage appointments, contact me for availability.