I often feel like if I can run here in Colorado, I can run almost anywhere. Now I am sure there are folks in places like say Alaska or North Dakota laughing at me right now … but Colorado offers some challenging elements. For one thing, we are running at 6200 feet above sea level. The Bolder Boulder race says it best with their “Sea Level is for Sissies” gear. So naturally, traveling to a lower altitude immediately turns you into a super hero runner.
Colorado is cold. I know we boast something like 300+ days of sun but when it is 15 degrees outside with some unfathomable wind chill, it’s just cold! Now granted most days aren’t that cold but temps in the 30s are common during the winter. Most of us have an array of gloves, hats, jackets, vests, pants in our winter running arsenal. There is nothing like chilly sweat icicles or trying to suck water out of a frozen water bottle …
And about that sun – it can be intense at this altitude. I always slather on the SPF 50+ , dependent on that UVA and UVB protection, trying in vain not to end up looking like a sun weather, high altitude Coloradoan runner – you’ve all seen them, you know what I am talking about.
Snow is another fun one. Just start training for a marathon and it will suddenly start snowing every single weekend. I am not lying. This happened to me last spring when I was training for the Colorado Marathon. I ran many long runs while it was snowing, on snow packed trails/roads, over snow drifts – you know, snow. I have since made peace with the snow – at least the snow that comes in peace and not with my #1 nemesis – the wind.
In my opinion, the wind is the worst weather enemy for a runner. There have been a few particularly windy when I’ve really questioned my sanity. The feeling of being forced back while trying to move forward, gasping to catch your breath during a particularly powerful gust running backwards for a moment of relief… I hate it.
Of course there are other elements we enjoy as well including icy roads and magnificent thunder/lightening and hail storms – these are the ones that definitely keep me indoors. The rest of the elements I battle as the mood strikes – more often taking the challenge but also relying on the treadmill when my weather battling mojo is low.
I agree with your comments on wind. it really must be the most challenging… mentally if nothing else. Running can be tough enough with out feeling your being held back by a strong wind!
Wind is absolutely devastating – it is an element that really exacts a toll. Not just running…once last year I spent a day on the field as soccer manager at a kids’ soccer tournament….with a high wind blowing all day long. I had a migraine afterwards and was absolutely wiped out the next day! I am convinced it was due to that dreadful wind. As for running in a high wind – I find it is very difficult to establish a rhythm and pace. The only way I’ve found to combat this is to take v short strides and muscle through it…and look forward to a better day and workout in future…