Autumn Running

Posted on 26 October 2021 by Accelerate Running Company

Accelerate Performance Centre’s Kate Southall shares her top tips for running as the seasons start to change.

We’ve all noticed the days getting shorter since the equinox. Today sunrise was at 0750 and sunset will be at 1751. Be sure to stay visible, wear your head torch and follow the Highway Code if you’re running around traffic.

There’s always a temptation to stay in shorts and vest as long as possible but make sure you have your windproof at least. There are specific dangers that lurk in the cold dark mornings and evenings that mean you’re more likely to be injured.

1/ leaves and sticks on pavements and paths

2/ uneven road or pavement surfaces- grates included

3/ drivers not reacting in time

4/ hypothermia

5/ muscle pulls running cold muscles

Warm up, wear enough, keep your phone charged, wear your lights and high vis, make sure someone knows where you’re going. Enable strava beacon, Garmin emergency, or other brand of safety tracking. Get straight into warm dry clothes when you’re done. Hydrate and fuel well. Spend time a varied strength and conditioning plan.

And if you do fall over a grate or a stick, come see me! I have experience treating all the joints in the body that we can get at from the temporomandibular joint in the jaw to the big toe and everything in between. If you’re unlucky enough to be hit in the arm by a wing mirror you slip and bang your shoulder I can help you with your rehab.