Races

That Dam Run 2019 Half-Marathon

That Dam Run 2019

Who’s up for a little adventure?

Lat week I ran The Snowman Stampede Half Marathon which started at a relatively warm 23 degrees with snow and ice. This one was more challenging. Another week, another half-marathon. Bring on the adventure! 

Fitness Insider’s Tip: ( I just realized how cheesy that sounds but I am leaving it in.)

I sign up for races 6-9 months in advance with the understanding that I will run regardless of the conditions. This is a great way to stay in shape, I always have something coming up in the future.

That Dam Run 2019

I especially like running in conditions like this because a lot of people freak out and stay inside. This is a great way to work on your mental toughness. The truth is if you have an idea how to dress and what shoes to wear, this can actually be a pleasant experience. The big key is to have zippered layers. Most people think the problem is staying warm. That really has to do more with the initial discomfort of being cold. Your biggest issue is getting rid of excessive heat before your clothes get sweaty. Once your clothes get wet, you will be cold and miserable.

That Dam Run 2019

Shoes

My plan was to wear my Altra Superior trail shoes to get a little extra grip. The trade-off is that that they don’t have a lot of padding, so the concrete is rough on the feet. As you can see, not a lot of concrete to deal with, so I think it was a good decision.

Clothes

  • Short Sleeve Performance T-shirt
  • Long Sleeve performance shirt
  • Blue Columbia running jacket
  • Saucony wind jacket
  • Hat
  • Gloves
  • Alpaca socks

Everything worked like a charm. What I didn’t count on was my camelback freezing up. But then again, my phone also froze up.

How cold was it?

I had to hold my energy gels in my hand to thaw them out before I ate them.

That dam run 2019

How did I Do?

About a minute per mile slower than last year. Last year was memorable because we had to run the last 2.5 miles on top of the dam going straight into a 40-50 MPH wind that never stopped. 

For me, getting a PR is great but having a new adventure is always better. 

Here is the Key. Get your Head right.

  1. You signed up for it so you are going to do it.
  2. Yes, it is going to be uncomfortable, deal with it.
  3. You may never see these conditions again, so enjoy it as a once in a lifetime adventure.
  4. Celebrate like hell afterwards.

Cold weather running can be enjoyable or miserable. These are products I recommend for cold weather running.

If you are ready to become a better version of yourself, it would be an honor to train you. Fill out this contact form and we can set up a free 30 minute, no obligation, consultation to see if this training is right for you.

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Michael Medvig

My job is to make you a better version of yourself through mental and physical training...with a bit of humor thrown in.

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