Being a long-distance runner is not for the feint at heart. It takes dedication to the sport and many runners often end up with torn tendons and other issues because of all the running that they do. The risk of injury increases even more if they do not stay in shape, which means that winter can be very tough on them. A competitive long-distance runner may not be able to run outdoors during the winter if there is snow and other hazards. Therefore, staying warm & in shape is very hard to do unless they go running indoors during winter.
Running Indoors During Winter
A runner who is used to running long distances will probably feel as though they cannot survive the winter without running. Their body is used to it. It is even worse for a competitive runner to be kept away from running since they are so dedicated to doing it. This often means that they rely on places that offer indoor tracks or treadmills at their local gym, but is it really enough to keep them in good shape? In these places, are they able to keep the tone muscles that they depend on? It can be, as long as they do not rely on the treadmill and tracks exclusively. It gets boring for you and becomes routine for your body.
Breaking the Routine of Treadmills
One great exercise for runners who are confined to an indoor space throughout the winter months is to break out the jump rope. It is simple, but effective and can help you maintain your cadence, especially if you skip jump rather than jump with both feet at the same time. Rotating lunges and virtually any other strength training exercises will keep your body in peak condition for the spring to come. You can do knee highs, skater jumps, spidermans, sumo shuffles, and more. Since you depend on proper breathing and cardio workouts as well, you should consider bent knee leg lifts, side step lateral lunges, burpees, butt kicks, toe taps, and anything else that will ensure your heart rate goes up and you get a little sweat flowing.
Indoor Training Necessities
When the weather outside is frightful and you are kept inside with your running shoes, there are a few things that will help you stay in shape. One, as all runners know, stretching is important. You should choose a place that allows you ample space to stretch out before and after a workout. It should also be warm to help you burn the calories that you need to burn. The indoor facility that you use should have warmth and if you are using a home gym, you may want to make sure that your gas pigtails are in proper working order. The treadmills, exercise bikes, and other equipment will also be helpful at keeping you in good enough shape that when the temperatures warm up, you will be ready to run the 5k without risking injury to your feet, legs, and joints.