Start the New Year
Drop by and see what is new for the upcoming year. We have many new products and are organizing New Year clinics. We can't think of a better way to start 2010 than by making the commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Runner's' Den can be part of the new you. Let us help you.

All our clinics are organized for the new year - check it out (left hand side of the page) and see where you can get involved.

What's new for 2010?
Trail Race.  We are having a trail race on Sunday June 6. It will be a 10k, and a 25k. It will start from Brant Park in Brantford, getting on the rail trail for a bit, then on a foot trail along the river. It will go as far as Paris before turning around and coming back, using both rail and foot trail. More info to come.

Spring Tri Clinic. We are aiming to start an 8 week clinic the first week of April to prepare for the triathlons in Guelph in June. More info to come.


Winter running

Winter running is tough....battling the snow, the cold, the wind. What's that saying??? That which doesn't kill you, makes you stronger?? Well, it's kinda true with winter running. You will be a stronger runner by overcoming all the elements that are trying to stop us. Proper gear is a must...you need a balaclava, warm mitts, water/wind resistant jacket as well as pants, and technical tops that will keep you warm and dry. If you are lacking in anything, check out our sales for Jan/Feb. We have all the proper gear right here at the store.

Remember to bring water with you...we have a tendency to not drink as much because it's cold...but our bodies still really need it!! Put a bottle in your pocket, or wear one the the running belts under your jacket. You don't want it to freeze...

Take a few more breaks while you are running. When you are battling the snow, sliding and pushing forward, your legs will tire easily. The best remedy is to take more frequent breaks...have a drink, regroup, give yourself a pat on the back for being out there, and then continue on. Your body will thank you for it.

If it's really bad, if you are still cold after being out for a few minutes, (say, give yourself 15 minutes) stop and go home (or back to Runner's Den). It's not worth it.....frostbite, injuries, fatigue, all happens when it's too icy or snowy. No one needs to run in an ice or snowstorm. You are a danger to motorists and to yourself, so give yourself a break and let the run go for that day.

Running is a lifestyle, so if you miss one run, no worries, you know there will be another day to run, another opportunity to race, another chance to get yourself out the door and enjoy the fresh air. Give yourself a break if you have a bad cold, the flue or just overall tiredness.

Run with a buddy, or a group. Running at night, by yourself, in the cold, is dangerous. A car is more likely to see two of you, then one. When it's cold and dark, no one should be out there by themselves. We are more apt to need help in the winter time than another other, so make sure help is with you.

Wear reflective clothing. Motorists will thank you for your, your family will thank you for it, and you will feel more secure running with it. Reflective winter clothing is a must. If you don't have anything reflective, you will need a reflective vest - one that can be thrown on over your coat. We have them here at Runner's Den.

Cross train. This is the best time of year for cross training. When it's too bad to go outside, hit the gym and do the bike or the elliptical or stairclimber. You'll be using different muscles, which will only enhance your runinng. Do weights...work on building more strength in your leg muscles and upper body. Do core exercises....all this is all good to keep you motivated and in good shape.

The best thing about winter running......is.....clear nights, cold. Everyone else is inside, keeping warm. You are outside, and it silent, maybe snow is lightly falling. You feel you have a secret...because you are not cold. Everyone thinks you are crazy, including your family and friends, but that's ok. You wouldn't miss this for anything. You can see your breath, your heart is pumped, and it feels so good to be alive. You are refreshed and invigorated....and in the end, you are so glad you did it.  The secret? You're not crazy, you're just a little bit weird.....