Heck of a work out

I've never run in the snow before, I've hiked in it, built a few snow men in my time but never run. Although today was cold at about two or three below freezing, thankfully this week without the icy wind, it felt quite pleasant. I guess the bright sun helped too.



I started out today with a road jog and then over Haytor and off for a short run. After about 20mins the terrain got the better of me. The snow changed from a few inches to about three foot snow drifts. I probably only ran a few miles, all the time having to work hard. The new multi surface North Face shoes that arrived this week, were an absolute treat, I was amazed at the traction over ice, snow and slippery tarmac. I'm defiantly sold on cross running shoes after this morning.



The scenery was breath-taking, the air was crisp, just right for a early morning jaunt. I however was not alone today... several rabbits were going about their business on the snow. Unlike me hardly making and impact on the surface of the fluffy stuff, sadly their feet were faster than my ability to get my camera out and snap them. Every time I'd see one and turn the camera on, they'd be off, all I got for my persistence was a few tracks in the snow.



As the snow drifts finally got hip hight I back tracked on my trail, all the time working hard to raise my legs. I guess it was more a leg work out than a true run. Again having the right kit was perfect for the trip out. The Hilly socks kept me warm and with the Paramo smock I was toastie, event when I stopped to snap some pics.



It was a brilliant way to spend an hour or two on a perfect winters morning. I can really feel my thighs burning. It was almost like being on the elliptical trainer in a gym, pumping my arms hard to get my legs moving with any momentum as they sank anywhere from a new inches to a couple of feet.

Sunday we are both off to either the middle or north Dartmoor, more snow and higher winds, it'll be another picturesque morning I'm sure.

-Darren

Stumble It!