The Case for Snowshoe Running
A fresh snow might require freezing temperatures outside, but it warms my heart and refreshes my mind.
Then again, nothing deflates my running confidence quite like running in snowshoes. Every year I forget how hard it is.
I've run almost 1000 miles this year and the three I ran around Quaker Pond at Mendon Ponds Park on Friday were some of the slowest and most strenuous. My legs and my lungs burned. I overheated. I can't wait to do it again.
Few activities offer the benefits of snowshoeing. It's intense cardio with added resistance and weight, thanks to the snow and shoes, respectively.
I posted a few photos from my run in an online forum and was surprised by the number of envious comments I received from runners all over the world who have never had the opportunity to give snowshoe running a try.
In addition to burning extra calories and living in a community gifted with perfect conditions, I offer three more reasons to consider trying snowshoes:
1) Falling doesn't hurt as much. Snow covers up most of the roots and rocks on trails which decreases the probability of falling. Even if you do, a soft cushion awaits.
2) It's a quick way to warm up. Snowshoeing is arduous. It's incredibility easy to work up a sweat. More often than not I regret wearing too much rather than not enough.
3) No traffic. I've seen and heard some scary stories about road runners slipping or running too close to traffic since the weather turned. Avoid motor traffic altogether by taking to the trails. Bonus: The snow stays prettier longer in the woods.