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Fall Running: It’s More than Exercise

By Dan Gardner, TOCA Special Running Correspondent

It’s time to enjoy beautiful fall days. How about a jog/run or walk? Early morning fall running can be a wonderful experience. Check out the colors and stay in shape. Running in cool weather is so exhilarating.

Here are some fall running tips I’ve gathered over the years and also gleaned information from Minnesota’s Hall of Fame Cross Country Coach Gerry Smith:

  • It’s probably time to check your shoes if you are still using your summer shoes. The tread may be worn or you might just want to “do it” with a new pair of shoes. Shopping for new shoes is always fun.
  • Because you no longer need to avoid the heat of the day by running early in the morning – unless that is something you like to do – get some extra sleep in the morning and do your run in the late afternoon. If you are semi-retired like me, run during the middle of the day.
  • A light, long-sleeve top is always a nice touch for fall. And how about a bright green set of shorts?
  • Even though you are not sweating as much, you still need to hydrate. A famous cross country coach once said, “Your sweat is your fat crying. Keep it up.”
  • Dress in reflective gear and possibly use a flashlight. And because the weather is so unpredictable for most parts of the United States, as fall wears on keep an eye on the weather. Rain and/or strong winds can make for a tough run. Watch for puddles and slippery conditions.
  • Enjoy nature. Sometimes get off the roads and head into the forest or truly cross country.

Feel free to contact me – Dan Gardner at twin1gard@aol.com – your TOCA running editor. I have a multitude of ideas (some effective) and my advice is free. Because I am semi-retired, I have plenty of time to help you with your physical fitness. Finally, to help make TOCA the best membership association it can be, keep that brain working as you get much-needed exercise and formulate how YOU can play a part in making TOCA the best association it can be. Until next time, be well, be smart, be healthy and be TOCA!