I’m writing this sitting at my kitchen table, mid-evening, midweek, mid-December, contemplating the fact that I’m running twice tomorrow. The first run will be at around 6.30 am to get to work, then the same route in reverse at about 5.30 pm to get back again. So a big consideration for tomorrow is the weather forecast. The morning is forecast dry and mild, but unfortunately it’s expected to change during the day and my run home will be into the face of a strong wind and almost certain rain. Hmmm!!!!!!!!! This is where having the right gear plays it’s part.
I’m not generally drawn in by advertising slogans, but this one caught my eye a few years ago: THERE’S NO SUCH THING AS BAD WEATHER – JUST THE WRONG CLOTHING ! Investing a bit in decent kit makes the worst of conditions a lot more bearable. It really does make going out when it’s cold and lashing down with rain at lot less daunting if you’ve got decent quality lightweight breathable waterproof top and trousers. A couple of layers of long sleeve thermals, gloves, hat and a snood if it’s cold and you’re unstoppable! Basically, if you stay dry and well insulated the English winter shouldn’t trouble you. Cross country running through snow is great fun, and if you’re really adventurous you can do that in the dark as the small amount of starlight or moonlight will reflect off the snow to give some visibility. It’s a great novelty but best to carry a mobile phone with you and let someone know where you’re going if you decide to give it a try. At the other end of the temperature scale, it’s a matter of how you as an individual can handle running in the heat. If you’re fair skinned you may prefer to avoid the full sun of a hot July day, but personally I’ve always loved running in the heat of the midsummer sunshine in just shorts and shoes – great sense of freedom. Ultimately it’s just a matter of accepting that the weather in this country changes on a daily basis, so be ready for anything and learn to enjoy the different conditions. I wish you the best Christmas that 2020 allows, and see you next week on the subject of…..looking back, looking forward.
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