Every runner has ever had to face his career in adverse conditions. Cold, rain, and perhaps one of the worst situations to train your race: the wind. For this reason, below, we are going to offer you the best tips to go running in the wind so that you can continue with your workouts.
What you need to keep in mind to run when it’s windy
There are many reasons why going for a run in the wind is an especially tough experience. The gusts are felt in the pit of the stomach as if it were a punch, and you notice that the resistance exerted by the air even makes time pass much slower.
Even if it’s harsh, don’t let a windy forecast confine you to the gym treadmill or deter you from going for a run. Instead, use these 5 tips to run in the wind safely and get the most out of your training in harsh weather.
1. Control your race pace
A headwind significantly increases the energy you need to push your race forward. Especially if you run a marathon pace or faster. Instead of trying too hard to reach a certain pace and accumulating too much fatigue too early in the race, measure effort. Yes, even if you can run a few seconds per kilometer slower, you will be able to finish the workout with the same physiological effects that were intended.
A slower time run offers far more benefits to your training than a run left in the middle from excess fatigue. Do not forget.
2. Strong mindset
Unless the wind reaches extreme speeds, it shouldn’t force you to abandon a race. It is your reaction to the wind conditions that determines whether you finish your race or leave it early.
Use your strong mindset, find the motivation you need, and self-talk during the race to shape your reaction and perception of the wind. Focus on your strength, resolve, and stamina. You can also think about how running in the wind will best prepare you for race day, in case you run on a windy day.
3. Pay attention to your clothes
The more aerodynamic your equipment is, the less wind resistance you will experience when running. Avoid baggy shirts and shorts, hoods, and lots of layers so your clothes don’t blow away in the wind.
Also be aware that a headwind can have quite a chilling effect. Long-sleeved thermal shirts are recommended, which cover the entire arm and do not detach from the body. The famous windbreakers are also very useful jackets for going for a run in the wind. If you have long hair, wearing it tied up in a ribbon or with a ponytail is the best option if you don’t want to end the race with a mess of messy hairs on your head.
4. Use the wind as training
You can manipulate your run so that the wind helps you learn to run on tired legs. Running with a tailwind for the first half of your run and then running against the wind in the second half will train you mentally and physically to run at a good level on tired legs.
Since headwinds will make your legs feel more fatigued than they are, it’s hard to find a better obstacle to make your workout more effective.
5. Stay alert
When you go for a run in the wind, we recommend that you do not wear headphones. In this way you can be more aware of the conditions of your environment. Regardless, if your gusts rise above 35-40 mph, consider swapping your run for another workout or using the treadmill at the gym.
