I’ve hit a few snags while training for the NJ marathon at the end of April, one major snag really. Snow. I don’t mind running in sub-zero temperatures, wear layers and wicking garments to stay warm and dry. But ice and snow have derailed my routine. Sidewalks can be tricky to run on if they haven’t been cleared; craters of frozen ice and snow raise the odds of slipping, falling or twisting an ankle. At my best I’m clumsy. Plowed snow, pushed up against street curbs over and over after every new storm, creates narrow lanes and angry drivers; running in the road adds to their rage. I’ve managed my longer runs by getting out early, donning headlamp and reflector vest, staying on secondary, less traveled roads. I’ve built my weekend longs runs up to 15 miles, hope to run 16 this weekend. It’s been tough, this winter’s been long.
View from my back deck
For my shorter runs I’ve become reacquainted with the treadmills at the gym. A few times a week, right before lunch I change into yoga pants and t-shirt, slip into running shoes and drive the five minutes from my office to the YMCA. Unlike some of the other Ys I’ve visited this one has a large cardio deck with rows of treadmills; there’s never been a sign up sheet or lack of machines. I run up to 5 miles, increase my speed every 10 minutes or so, talk myself through it. I’ve yet to find a pair of earphones I can run with, watch the silent TV screen in front of me, usually the cooking channel, count the minutes on the wall clock as they drag by. it’s tough, time moves slowly.
View of the front, too much snow!
Like everyone else in the Northeast (I think) I’m counting the days until Spring. Right now, snow’s falling steadily and is expected to continue throughout the day. I feel like I’m in a Twilight Zone episode, feel like it might never stop snowing. I won’t be running outside today, probably won’t be running outside tomorrow either. Looks like another trip to the Y, another talking to as I try to increase my mileage on the treadmill.
In a spin class the other night the instructor shouted into her microphone, over the pulsating music, to us, “I don’t want to hear anyone complaining about the heat and humidity this summer.”
Deal!
Tree in my front yard is pretty covered in fresh snow
Backyard…..Spring and Winter
Categories: Home, Run, Uncategorized
where my feet are 
I agree, Geralyn, snow and ice on the ground doesn’t make for good running conditions. I’m a klutz on ice. 🙂 I’m curious, what speed do you run on the treadmill?
I love your photographs! Stay warm!
I’m all over the place on the TM, Jill, to help me stay motivated. I’ll start at 9:40/pace and pick up pace every 8 – 10 minutes. Or I’ll run a steady pace 3/4 mile then pick it up so I’m sprinting for last 1/4 mile. When I slow back down I try to run a little quicker pace for the next 3/4 mile, then sprint 1/4 mile. Does that make sense? In general, I probably average 9:15-9:20/pace, hope to get a little faster by marathon time….always been mid pack runner. 🙂
Great pictures Ger. Made me shiver. Loved the comparison picture of your backyard in Spring and Winter. Makes me appreciate living in Florida more and more. Run safe. Xo Mom
I hope this is the last of the snow, want to see the Spring version of my backyard soon!
This winter certainly has been long, Geralyn. Seems never ending. I don’t run, but I love to walk and this weekend has been the first time I’ve been able to get out and take long walks without turning into a Popsicle, but I was still slogging through snow. Spring is coming or so people keep telling me. 🙂
Elizabeth, hard to believe Spring is coming but it will! And I’m so looking forward to it. Thanks for commenting.