Cool runnings

Running in the colder weather is no easy feat.

Sometimes it’s challenge enough finding the motivation to tie up those laces, let alone having to consider the chilly air that greets you when you open the door.

Thankfully for us at Rock ‘n’ Roll DC Marathon & Half Marathon Presented by CareFirst, our event falls in early springtime, when the sun peaks out and the beautiful cherry blossoms have begun to bloom.

But we get it, we need to train beforehand, so brave the cold we must! Here are 6 cool tips to keep you warm and prepared to kick butt:

1. Write it down. When you write down your intentions to train you begin to focus on the goal. You hold yourself more accountable and are less likely to look for excuses to back out.
2. Layer up. The best way to regulate your temperature as you run is by having multiple layers that you can remove as you warm up. Base layers should be moisture wicking, mid-layers insulating and outer layers lightweight and windproof.
3. Choose your shoes. Think about where you plan to run. Trail running shoes are best for inconsistent or rugged surfaces while road running shoes need to have plenty of tread for wet or icy conditions.
4. Have a plan… and a backup! Make sure you tell someone where you plan to run and never be out of reach of shelter in case the weather turns. Have an alternate route or an indoor workout planned ahead of time to ensure there’s no backing out if Plan A is not possible.
5. Drink up. Don’t be fooled – just because it’s cold doesn’t mean we need less water. Drink water after any workout and throughout the rest of the day.
6. Play it safe. Make sure you can be seen. Reflective and high visibility gear is a must for running in the dark. And as always, listen to your body – if something doesn’t feel right, head indoors and check it out.

We look forward to rocking with you in DC on March 14 where we can celebrate all your hard work and winter training!

Rock ‘n’ Roll DC Marathon & ½ Marathon presented by CareFirst is on March 14^th and is the only marathon course that runs entirely within the District of Columbia. The event also features a 5K and for the first time this year participants can take the #DC2MX challenge and run Rock ‘n’ Roll DC and Rock ‘n’ Roll Mexico City in the same weekend. 

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