Prepare For Cold Weather Cycling Training, Running

Training and exercise does not have to stop in cold weather, if some precautions are taken before hitting the street.

Cold Weather Running Advice

The vast majority of people who are in fair physical condition can ride a bicycle or even jog during cool or warm weather. But cold weather brings on a completely different set of situations, most of them hazardous if the individual is not prepared. Running during a training period or getting cycling training in cold weather is OK if the individual takes a few precautions. At the most basic level, a runner or rider heading out in cold weather must dress warmly and protect exposed skin wherever possible. Breathing problems and frostbite are two common problems that can arise because of too little preparation.

What To Do

Something as basic as a scarf around the neck and a handkerchief over the nose and mouth can be enough to bring the runner or rider back home safe and sound. Covering the mouth and nose with a cloth or handkerchief makes a huge difference in the intake of cold air. Extreme cold means that the material should be thicker. Some runners and riders may feel that it isn’t necessary to pay as much attention to water intake in the winter as it is in the summer. But this is a misconception. The body will sweat a bit more because it may be wrapped in more clothing. That alone makes it necessary to stay hydrated. A supply of water should be taken along, even in winter.

For anyone having breathing problems or bronchial irritation due to illness or cold air, it is best to just stay inside until the condition improves. In addition, the runner or someone in cycling training should be more aware of traction problems (feet or tires). Sometimes it is just not a good idea to run when there is ice and snow on the ground. That’s common sense. Trail shoes will help because they have a different sole design than other running and riding shoes. A slower pace may also be necessary. Dress For Cold Weather

Layers of clothing are always the best answer for cold weather. This allows the runner or rider to shed a layer if he or she becomes too warm, or add a layer if necessary. Socks may need to be a bit heavier and a hat should always be worn in cold weather. Most of the body heat lost during exercise goes through the head. The keys are: be in shape to start with; dress warmly; stay dry; use caution. With these things in mind the individual can run or ride year round.

More information about warm cycling clothes and winter bicycle clothing available here.

November 21 2008 | bicycle | 1 Comment »

Work With Pros For Running, Cycling Shoes

Quality running shoe manufacturers offer several benefits. Saucony is known for durability.

Why You Should Choose Saucony Shoes

Those who take up the sport of running, for exercise, for fun and for competition, are faced with a dizzying array of good shoes (some of which are great running shoes). This same dizzying array has come to apply to cycling shoes as well, as designers/manufacturers in that field use new technology and materials to enhance the cycling experience.

In the world of athletic shoes, Saucony has become very popular for several reasons. Durability, however, is at the top of the list. Athletes have found that these shoes can last years, rather than months, as is the case with some less-durable shoes. Finding a pair of Saucony shoes that fit perfectly is a great experience. Knowing that they will last is even better.

Benefits

There is a significant difference between features and benefits, as most experienced sales people know. Features are what attract someone to a product, while benefits are the things the individual enjoys after the purchase. With Saucony shoes, quality and value translate into benefits because the shoes last and the customer does not have to spend additional money for a new pair of shoes for quite some time. The company offers a wide range of styles and designs, allowing the buyer to find the perfect shoe for them. Quality running and cycling shoes should fit well and look good too.

Where to Look

Many serious runners will invest a bit of extra effort to find Saucony running shoes, or another quality brand that has worked for them. There are several sources for these shoes, including Runners world, a world-class running shop. Those seeking cycling shoes of equal quality might being their search with one of the top bicycle shops in mid-size and large cities everywhere. The pros at Runners world not only offers a nice selection of shoes, but staff experience will go a long way toward finding the correct shoe for individual needs.

What to Think About

Before deciding on any running shoes, the individual should consider working with a “brick-and-mortar” store, an actual retail shop where staff members can work with the individual face to face. This can be important as needs change. Good sales staff can help identify problems that may mean moving to another shoe design. Each individual has a unique way of running that puts particular emphasis on different parts of the foot. Pros at the good shoe sources, for running shoes or cycling shoes, can help make the exercise or competition experience as good as it can be.

November 17 2008 | bicycle | 1 Comment »