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Up to Threads in Newbie Cafe (New Runners)
491 Views 3 Replies Latest reply: Jan 21, 2013 5:15 PM by Stacey27557 RSS
Stacey27557 Rookie
Stacey27557
2 posts since
Sep 25, 2012
Currently Being Moderated

Jan 20, 2013 5:18 PM

Breathing daggers on cold weather runs!

Okay, I am NOT a runner, but I do it because I'm not 18 anymore and cardio is required to stay fit.  I know my limits, and I've been able to extend those limits with patience and persistence.  But, now that the temps have dropped in our area, I'm struggling.  I find that a mile into my runs I'm breathing hot daggers into my lungs, and my chest continues to throb after my runs, too.  I drink warm water when I get home.  That seems to help a little, but it's very discouraging.  Is this just something that you get over?  Is there a breathing technique that I don't know?  HELP!!

Tags: newbie, running_advice_new_runner, running_advice, running_tips
  • lenzlaw Community Moderator
    lenzlaw
    9,928 posts since
    Jan 18, 2008
    Currently Being Moderated
    1. Jan 20, 2013 8:47 PM (in response to Stacey27557)
    Breathing daggers on cold weather runs!

    It may be something you can get used to, depending on temperature, but some people have problems in cold air.  Meanwhile, you can get a neck gaiter or a scarf or a ski mask/balaclava to cover your mouth and/or nose.  It makes it a little harder to breath but definitely helps with the temperature.  I have a thin balaclava that I use when temps get to the low 20s/teens.

     

    Len




    Len

  • ydiez Pro
    ydiez
    105 posts since
    Nov 7, 2011
    Currently Being Moderated
    2. Jan 21, 2013 3:16 AM (in response to Stacey27557)
    Breathing daggers on cold weather runs!

    I also wear a thin "Buff" ( I am not sure wheteher this is actually a brand name but do not know the correct name in English). In case anyone does not know, it is a thin elastic, closed neck scarf (see, for example http://figmentoffitness.wordpress.com/2012/03/16/rockin-my-buff/ for some images). 

     

    What did the trick for me is wearing it only over my neck, surprisingly enough, even though I stil take in the cold air it does not hurt  as it used to. In very cold days, I wear it also over my nose and mouth as lenzlaw suggested, but I try not to as I find it quite unconfortable.




    Current PB:

    5k: 20:12 (December 31st 2012)

    10k : 44:30 (November 6th 2011, March 18th 2012)

    Half Marathon: 1:35:27 (February 3rd 2013)

    Recently running half marathons. Six completed so far. Now looking for number 7. Once I get to 10 I will start thinking about full marathons.

  • Stacey27557 Rookie
    Stacey27557
    2 posts since
    Sep 25, 2012
    Currently Being Moderated
    3. Jan 21, 2013 5:15 PM (in response to Stacey27557)
    Breathing daggers on cold weather runs!

    Thanks a lot for the input.  I'll definitely try this on my next run.  Luckily, we don't get very cold for very long in NC.  I'd rather run in 100 degree weather any day!

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