Have a happy and safe holiday season.
I will extend that wish to many over the next few weeks, but, at this time of year, a "safe" holiday season wish is particularly appropriate to runners.
Although there has been criticism of runners and their running routes from local folks (a caller to the Thunder/Enlightning column even referred to runners as "nitwits"), unless restricted, as in the case of Interstate highways, runners have every right to share the road with vehicular traffic. Those who refer to runners as nitwits, simply need to get over it.
That being said, it is up to runners and walkers to conduct their activities on the roads with a sense of responsibility. If they do so, using some common sense, they can decrease their chance of dangerous encounters with motor vehicles, which weigh more and travel at much faster speeds than we.
The winter solstice occurs Dec. 21 this year. Until then, we continue to lose precious minutes of daylight. Avid runners have a limited amount of daylight, so many are forced to conduct their workouts during the pre-dawn hours, near dusk or at night.
It is absolutely essential for runners to make sure they are visible during these low-visibility hours. Wear as much reflective gear as possible. Most athletic apparel manufacturers offer outerwear with reflective strips. Many running shoes also display reflective patches somewhere on their products.
There are glow bands that can be worn on the arms and legs. Some can be set to flash on and off in order to attract additional attention.
Some runners have even purchased headlamps. Often, during winter months, we are forced to run more miles on the sidewalks, which can be quite dangerous if one cannot see what is covering them.
Winter weather conditions send many runners scurrying indoors to the treadmill, but most still prefer running outdoors. Safety is again a factor that cannot be ignored.
Few running shoes are equipped to handle icy roads and sidewalks, so runners can now purchase running crampons, actual metal spikes that can be wrapped onto your shoe with a rubberized "sleeve." They are expensive, and may only be used a couple of times a year, but considering the potential consequences, may be worth the price.
Take the road less traveled, or hit the trails whenever possible. By avoiding high traffic areas, you can significantly reduce the chance of encountering automobiles and their sometimes less than friendly drivers.
In previous winter columns, I have talked about dressing properly, utilizing windy days to your advantage by running out and back, with the wind behind you on the way home, as well as other winter advice.
In addition to the above recommendations, let's take another approach to winter training.
Since your hours of daylight are limited, concentrate on shorter, faster workouts during the week. Save the long runs for weekends.
Chances are you have run many races throughout the year, and perhaps are recovering from a fall marathon. Use the next month to relax and to heal. A day off here or there won't hurt you.
Build back slowly into regular training, and you will be stronger and healthier for your spring races.
Don't worry so much about your watch. On most days, be content with completing a workout when others have decided to stay in bed. Enjoy the winter scenery, while appreciating and preparing for winter's dangers.
Be cautious and careful when you run on the roads this winter and you will, indeed, have a happy and safe holiday season.
Race news
Amy Williams Murphy formerly from Minersville now living in Linglestown, completed her first marathon in November. At the Harrisburg Marathon, she ran a time of 4:21:20, to finish as the 147th female, and 29th in her age division. She is a 1999 graduate of Minersville Area High School.
(Muldowney is an avid runner and local educator)