Well, it's official, the winter season is here! The snowy and rainy season here in the Sea to Sky corridor has arrived, and although we are starting to get in to our holiday party season and we want to hibernate it is important to try and find ways to keep that workout mojo to work off those extra glasses of wine, continue to get outdoors for a breath of fresh air and maintain that fitness.
For many of us it is a time to hit the slopes or Callahan to get back on our skis. FUN ....yes.... sore.....Y-E-S!!!! If you aren't cross training and strength training in preparation you'd better get on it! Cross training with strength and working on changes of direction and stability can get you ready for ski season to keep those legs lasting just a little longer and to keep you from getting injured!
What about those hardy runner-types..... well remember to consider you gear! For days like today I'd throw my Yak-Traks on my shoes. You can get them at local stores like Valhalla or any running stores around. The snow is no excuse to stay inside- and actually I loved it on my run yesterday ...there is something about the quiet surreal little flakes on a quiet evening run in the winter!
Don't forget to wear layers- and in this town REFLECTION! That can be a band on your sleeve that you velcro around your arm, reflective jackets AND in this town I usually wear my headlamp. Others can see you and you can see where you are going. Keep those ankles safe and sounds
Other gear to think about are what kinds of tops to wear in the rain? Personally I am on a merrino wool kick! It keeps you warm when its cold and cool when its hot. It takes several runs before it gets stinky too and when its sopping wet it still keeps you warm. That said it is not wind resistant so think of a shell for those rainy days. Most outdoor runners know this already but never forget to stay Far far FAR away from anything cotton- brrrrrr wicking clothing is essential.
If those tootsies get cool consider wool socks also!
Don't be surprised if you are sore in spots you haven't felt for months as your body works hard to keep you safe and stabilized.
Don't be surprised if you see our workout groups out in the snow and out in the rain- we westcoasters are hardy folks- we know from experience that we won't melt and we won't be cold that is for sure if we are working our butts off! Embrace your own west coast hardiness and hit the slopes, the cross country ski hills, the outdoor fitness groups and the running shoes- or cozy it up and give er on that treadmill. Lunge your way to better stability and keep those eggnog lattes and extra party eats in check.
Happy holiday training everyone!
By the way the website is up so check out our new years resolutions programs to see how we can help you get back at it! www.mantraliving.ca
