No, Running in Snow Really Is Not Like Running in Sand
For all of us living in Boston and throughout New England, this winter has been exceptionally brutal. But for those of us training for the Boston Marathon, this winter with its record snowfall totals has provided its own set of unique challenges.
Not only did the snow start falling during a critical time in the training cycle, its consistent and seemingly ever growing presence has forced many of us to rethink how we are going about our training. For some, this has meant miles upon miles of “treadmill training.’’ For others such as myself, who still insist on training outside, running through snow while being surrounded by three to four foot high snow banks for miles on end, has become the “new normal.’’
Yet, when I tell people this, one of the comments/questions that I consistently get asked is:
“Isn’t running in snow just like running in sand?’’
I get it. Sand, like snow, is a somewhat unstable surface and running it is does require some extra effort, particularly compared to running on a solid, dry and smooth surface. But to be honest, the comparisons end there and let me tell you why.
1. You’re Not on a Beach
Now this might not be true of everyone, but when it comes to running in the snow, most of us are not running at the beach. We’re running on snow covered sidewalks, streets and trails. This is not something that most of us look forward to; rather we’re just crazed people who insist on running outside no matter what the situation is.
Conversely when I’m running in the sand, it’s typically on a nice warm beach. It’s peaceful, beautiful and relaxing. I’m thrilled to be running in this environment. Yes, running in the sand poses its own set of challenges, but the pros do far outweigh the cons.
2. It’s Cold, Not Warm
For the past month I’ve braved temperatures as low of -11 degrees and typically on average it’s been consistently between 15-30 degrees. Yes, when you’re out running in the snow, it’s often freaking freezing.
As for my experience when running in the sand, its typically been between 60-85 degrees. Yeah, this is just a little more pleasant in my humble opinion.
3. Ice
Whether the snow is light and fluffy or hard packed and firm, there is always that threat of an unseen patch of ice lurking beneath your feet. At best this can trip you up as you run; at the worst it can take your feet right from underneath you and lead to a nasty spill.
Now, when it comes to running in the sand, I’m not saying that you can’t get tripped up, but the landing tends to be just a little bit softer and resulting fall often has less dire consequences.
4. You’re Constantly Getting “Slushed’’
As you run through in the snow, whether it’s on the sidewalk or in the street, you’re consistently getting sprayed with slush by the cars and trucks around you. In another scenario, you take a step on something that appears solid, only to suddenly find your foot submerged in four inches of slushy water. No matter what the situation, you have to deal with slush coming at you from all directions. Yes, when you run in the snow, you’re not only sweaty; you’re often soaked because you’ve been “slushed.’’
Comparatively, when running in the sand, if you’re getting sprayed, it’s most likely from a crashing wave. Not only is this refreshing and in most cases welcomed, it can actually be a motivating force as you run.
5. You’re Covered from Head to Toe
When I’m running in the snow, it also means that I’m all bundled up. This often means that I’m wearing several layers on top and bottom, plus my hat and gloves.
Conversely when I’m running in the sand, I’m most likely wearing just shorts, a shirt and my shoes (sometimes). Yes, when I’m running in sand I’m not dressing to brave the elements; I’m dressing to embrace them.
Now, as much as this winter has provided its own set of training challenges, if there is one thing it has taught me, it’s that you must embrace the situation that has been laid before you and adapt accordingly. While running in the snow is certainly much different than running in the sand, it’s also another reminder that the path to the starting line is never easy.
Yet experiences such as these and the ability to navigate them are what make us stronger. They build character. Most importantly come race day, enduring times like these ensures that we all will have what it takes to not only make it to the start, but also across the finish line.
Thank You for Your Support
This year I am running in support of the Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) Life. Giving. Breakthroughs. Boston Marathon team. Since 1998, BWH has raised more than $6.6 million through its marathon program, and I’m proud to be a part of helping to increase that number. To lend your support, please click here.
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