Okay, so maybe there is a different meaning behind the Bob Seger song and what I'm talking about, but I certainly felt against the wind today. Living in North Texas brings some interesting weather, we have gone from 90 degree heat to freezing temperatures in a matter of hours, clear skies and a cool breeze will quickly turn into a cloudy tornado like force, even more difficult to overcome if you're walking or running through the high rises of downtown.
The gusty winds last most of the spring and summer here, so it's just something you have to get accustomed to, or you'll be spending your whole season on the couch or hiding inside on the treadmill.
Here are some things to keep in mind while running in gusty weather:
- Slow Down. Probably the last thing you expect anyone to say if you're in training, however, it takes a considerable amount of energy to maintain your no wind pace at a gust of 15 to 20 mph.
- Tuck and Lean. Tuck your chin into your chest, bring your arms in close to your torso and add a slight forward lean to your form, this will make you more aerodynamic.
- For racing try drafting, it will help shield the wind, which will already be requiring you to put forth more effort.
If you can't beat it join it, and run with the wind (or at the very least, finish your run with the wind). Running against the wind and finishing with it at your back will help relieve some of the effort used during your run, allowing you to pick up your pace (not too much though, don't over exert yourself just because you feel that burst behind you) and finish comfortably.
On a side note, if your one of the unlucky few like myself, try to take some allergy medicine before your run, or you will regret it when you get back. Hydrate!!!! I find running with a strong wind drys my mouth out faster than a regular run.
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