Fall Running Tips

By Dan Gardner, TOCA Special Running Correspondent

Fall is here and what can make a beautifully colored-leaf day even better?  How about a jog/run or walk?  Early morning fall running can be a wonderful experience.  Get out there and enjoy the day.

Here are some fall running tips shared with me from Hall of Fame cross country coach Gerry Smith:

*  If you have been running all summer (or strenuously walking) it’s probably time to check your shoes.  The tread may be worn or you might just want to “do it” with a new pair of shoes.

*  Get your fall wardrobe ready by some “fun” shopping.  A light long sleeve top is always a nice touch.  And how about a bright orange set of shorts?

*  You still need to hydrate, even though it is cooler.  And find some friends to run/jog/walk with who like to push a faster pace.  As you grow in your own healthy experience, it will do wonders for your own confidence.

*  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 even some 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 and my advice is free.  Because I am semi-retired, I have plenty of time to help you with your physical fitness – except when I’m running.

Finally – to help make TOCA the best membership association it can be – keep that brain working as you get very 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!

Photo credit: Minneapolis Running