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Hello my cold footlings,

So the whole of Europe is experiencing some unusual snow at the moment so I thought it was time to blog a 'snow special'. The snow has given everyone an opportunity to use it as an excuse not to run = bad! This is all good for the odd day but becomes an issue if this snow continues for a longer periods.

Here are some tip’s on how you can avoid these non-exercising days and make the most out of this weather:

• Planning ahead

Your training it is all about planning. When snow is predicted, look at your training and see what important sessions it might effect. You may find that you can tinker with your days so that you can fit the important long run or training session a day before the bad weather comes. This also works the other way. Weather predictions are not always right but if you know this cold snap is going to last 2 days they at least you can plan this into your schedule.

• Plan your route

Your usual route maybe a no go area with all that snow and ice. I hate to resort to this but it may be time use your head and select your running route carefully. Park paths may be slippery but running on grass should offer more traction. Cross country maybe the easier option but remember to keep an eye out for what may lay underneath. The last thing you want is too pick up an injury in these conditions! It may be an idea to travel somewhere suitable to run rather going from your usual start.

• Laps of fun!

If you can find some football pitches or playing fields then maybe the smartest thing to do is  laps. This is not going to be the most scenic run but atleast you will have confidence in your footing and you could use this as mental training!

• Watch out turning corners

This may sound standard but you need to take care when turning corners. You are more vulnerable changing direction so take it slowly with shorter steps. Your health is essential not your speed on these runs so it’s all about damage limitation!

• Trail shoes

On days trail shoes really come in handy. The extra grip they offer will allow you to flow through the snow and grip corners like a formula one racing car (but remember even they sometimes crash!).

If the weather finally beats you then head inside…

Tip- A lot of gyms offer free 'one day visits' so go online and have a look to see if your local gym has any offers you can abuse!

• Treadmill

If you are a member of a gym then get inside and use a treadmill. Remember that these will be popular on snow days so I suggest trying to get in there before the rush or off peak times!

• Cross train

If the treadmills are full then I suggest you try and get on a bike or cross trainer. Keep the resistance relatively low so that you simulate running rather than build leg muscles  like Lance Armstrong.

• Circuits and core stability
  

If a gym is not an option then set yourself a tough core stability or circuit session. This will help burn them calories and help you keep injury free. This is not an easy option so make sure you push yourself hard!

• Wear the right gear

It is temperatures like this that runners really get their monies worth in good quality running gear. Running gloves and hats will help you save 40% of your body heat. Remember this is only the start of winter so maybe treating yourself to an early xmas present might be a good idea and allow you to get real value from your cold weather clothing.

Tip- If you have forgotten your gloves then use a spare pair of socks (maybe two pairs) to cover them fragile fingers. You may look like a bad puppeteer but at least your warm!

• Vaseline

If you are training or racing on these cold days then add a thin layer of vaseline over your legs, arms and face. This will help keep the temperature up especially if there is wind about!

Seeming that it is a snow special I thought I would show off my Santa outfit (I will not show you pictures I have of the matching thong!). If you have any other tips for running in the snow or cold please add them as a comment below.

p.s. Thanks for the good comments on last weeks blog.