Just in case you hadn't noticed, Winter is here! What gave it away for me was the past few mornings of sub 5 degree temps. More importantly, it reminds me that training for the Melbourne Marathon is tough enough, but made that little bit harder as you have to train through the often cold, wet, and dark Melbourne Winter.
With that in mind, as I prepared to head out in 3.6 degrees on Tuesday morning, is my quick essentials guide to training in the cold Melbourne Winter. What to wear....;
- THIR ; possibly the best new piece of kit I was fortunate enough to be gifted thanks to the Wildplans Trail Crew. It's a neck scarf, headband, beanie, scrunchie, bandana & wristband in one! As a runner who prefers to wear as little as possible, this is the first extra piece of kit I add to shorts, singlet & shoes.
- BASE LAYER ; when it's cold, three layers works best, start with a quality merino or like base layer that is moisture wicking & breathable and you won't be sorry.
- OUTER SHELL ; The third layer for when it's cold, windy and wet. Must be good quality, lightweight, breathable & properly waterproof, particularly if you're heading out into trails.
- LONG TIGHTS or LONG SOCKS ; occasionally I'll break these out, but it's got to be very cold. make sure they have a long side zip at the bottom for when you get too warm in the legs. Personally, I prefer the long socks!
- GLOVES ; (of the running variety) for cold, cold mornings, I like to start with these. You can always take them off when you get warmed up, but without them, your hands may never thaw out!
- REFLECTIVE STRIPS ; if it's dark, and you're near other vehicles, visibility is a must. So be seen, and be safe with reflective strips, either built in to the clothing or as an add on.
This is just a start and I'm sure there are many many more options out there. The key is to be prepared and be comfortable. My favourite saying goes,
" there's no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing!"
So really there's no excuse. Besides, with the right gear, you'll be warmed up in no time and as happy as Larry, for these are truly magnificent mornings to be out on the run.
Winter also brings Early bird entries for this year's Melbourne Marathon, so with just over 19 weeks to go, it's time to commit!
Are you looking to run a PB in this year's marathon?
At Run Well marathon training, we can show you the way to your most successful and rewarding marathon race ever!
Train Smart, Run Well, Race Better!
- see you on the hill at 6:15am in the morning. We're expecting 6 degrees & balmy!
