Winter 7km run
The weather was slightly better so I attempted to run outside. There was still lots of ice and snow on the route.
I was really hoping to make progress on the 4:30/km pace but it's definitely a different experience outside than on the treadmill.
I'll keep working on it, try to get 5:00/km outside better then work toward the new pace.
Running outside in winter conditions is definitely a different experience compared to treadmill running. From my recent 7.6 km run, I realized that icy and snowy paths require extra caution and slower pacing to stay safe. I started with a 15-minute warm-up to get my muscles ready before attempting my tempo segment aiming for a 4:30/km pace. However, the slippery surface made it tough to maintain that speed, and I settled around a 5:48/km pace. Finding proper winter running gear is essential; I invested in shoes with good grip and wore layered clothing to stay warm without overheating. Another tip I found helpful is shortening strides to keep better balance on slippery patches. I also tracked my heart rate with my Garmin watch, keeping it steady at around 146 bpm, which felt like a good effort despite slower pace. Although I didn't hit my target pace this time, I plan to focus on increasing comfort and stability running outside in cold conditions. Once I get comfortable maintaining a 5:00/km pace safely outdoors, I'll gradually work toward my 4:30/km goal. Running outside during winter has its obstacles, but overcoming them builds resilience and makes training more rewarding. If you're considering winter runs, take it slow, invest in proper gear, and enjoy the fresh air even in chilly weather.
