Autumn Winter Race Stories

Lauren: This year, I planned three races for myself: the London Marathon, the Berlin Marathon, and the Brewdog Christmas Run. 

Running a marathon is still fairly new for me. I chose to run the London Marathon for a charity close to my heart. And then I decided to enter the Berlin lottery. Since moving to Scotland from the USA, it's both easier and cheaper for me to travel to Berlin. Plus, I was really excited by the opportunity to race another of the Abbott World Majors. As for the Brewdog Christmas Run, this 34km race will be a fun run with friends across part of northern Scotland. 

Millie: I ran a half marathon last month. I hadn’t completed a half marathon since 2017, and I signed up earlier this year to have something to train for over the Summer. I’ve since fallen into a nice training routine.   

I’ve also signed up for my first marathon, taking place in March. It’s a bit scary, but I’m looking forward to training for it over the winter. I’ve also got a 10km trail run this month which should mix things up a bit, as most of my training is done on the road. 

Matt: I took part in a half Ironman distance triathlon last month and have a cross-country race lined up this month before reassessing for the rest of the season. It’s likely that I’ll do some trail races between half marathon and marathon distance too. At the moment, I’m enjoying the variety and not being too specific with my training. 

Lauren: For me, I prefer to run early in the morning, but the lack of sunlight makes it a bit tricky. If it’s too dark to run, I’ll move off the trails and stick to the roads. Instead of 6:00 AM runs, I’ll most likely head out at midday. Since I’m a student, I have a bit more flexibility in my schedule to do this.  

In terms of my kit, I’ll start to layer up with high-vis, GORE-TEX, thermal layers, a head torch, and warm socks. The hardest part for me is starting with all these layers because at first, it’s cold; but you quickly warm up and want to take them all off. Thankfully, Scotland doesn’t get as cold as Minnesota, where I’m from - so I think I’ll enjoy winter running for once! 

Millie: It’s getting harder to fit my training runs in now. The mornings are dark, and the days are much shorter. Having a plan for each week and putting these in my diary has been essential to help me stay committed. I’m also looking at moving my shorter runs and interval sessions to my lunch break so that I can run during the day.   

With my runs getting longer, I’ve invested in a running vest – this has been a total game changer and ensured I’ve got everything I need to stay out there. I can hold gels, water, and my phone easily. I can even stuff a jacket in there too which is great. I’m also adding a head torch to my kit list, and I’ve swapped to my high-vis clothing to keep me seen and safe.   

Matt: There’s more planning involved with the winter months. If you work a 9-5 and live somewhere lacking streetlamps, then you’re going to have additional challenges when it comes to training. 

I typically run during my lunch hour to maximise the time running in the light. I’ll also add a run on the treadmill at the gym, because sometimes that works better for me. During colder months, I schedule my longer runs or workouts at the weekend during daylight hours. I check the forecast ahead of time and always pack a lightweight waterproof regardless. 

Lastly, If I plan to run in the mornings or evenings, I make sure I’m visible. My go-to is a head torch, but a high-vis vest is also a reliable option. I tend to skip a hat, but for me my gloves are essential because my hands get cold quickly and don’t warm up in the same way as other parts of the body when running. I’ll also choose a long sleeve top and tights for when it's especially cold.

Lauren: Friends. Running with someone else is the easiest way for me to stay motivated and keeps me accountable. Personally, I tend to decrease my miles and focus more on cross-training during winter as weather conditions make it difficult to consistently run outside. 

Millie: I’m seeing results from being consistent, so this really helps me stay motivated and pushes me out the door. Once I’m out there, I ease into the run after the first kilometre or so. I also know that you very rarely regret going for a run. Even if I didn’t have the best time, I know that’s one more run ticked off my training plan and I’m closer to reaching my end goal.   

When I’m out on long runs, I love listening to podcasts. I save up my podcasts and don’t listen to them until my long run day – it gives me something to look forward to which I really need when I’ve got a 2 or 2.5 hour run on the plan.     

For short runs or interval sessions I prefer music – I like a whole mix but when I really need to dig deep, I’ve got a running motivation playlist on Spotify that gives me the energy to keep moving - Jay-Z is the best motivator! 

Matt: Following a training plan is by far the most effective strategy for me. When I have a plan in place, I understand why each run is important and it becomes easier to track progress. From here, my motivation and momentum to keep going snowballs.  

I try to embrace winter challenges and turn negative inner monologues into something positive, such as what motivates me. I’m very competitive, so I try to harness this on the days conditions aren’t ideal. If you’re more performance-driven, you can reassure yourself that you’re building towards something special. I find inviting my friends to Strava, joining challenges and receiving kudos helps motivate me too. Another good motivtion tip is to reward yourself for getting out there - this could be a favourite meal, turning on the heating, or having a soak in the bath. 

Lauren: For me, races during the winter months tend to be about getting the miles in. This year, the London Marathon was cold and wet, so to stay focused I listened to a specific playlist and ultimately, kept the finish line front of mind. One of my goals is to complete all six of the Abbott World Majors Marathons. My aim isn't to set personal bests, my only goal is to cross that finish line.   

Millie: Although I’m relatively new to long-distance running, I know it’s essential to hold your pace and not go too hot too early. In my first half marathon 6 years ago, I ignored this advice, and I didn’t recover well – in fact, I injured myself completing it which resulted in me not being able to run for months.  

I’ve been cautious this time leading into my half marathon to train consistently, to learn what different efforts feel like for me, and then have a strategy in mind for race day with a goal pace and then a slower pace if needed. I think this all leads to feeling confident and in control on race day.   

Matt: Pack your bag and lay out your kit the evening before, so all you need to do is wake up and put your kit on, avoiding stress before your race. When you plan, more energy can be channelled into the race. So instead of worrying about the weather, you can focus on the things in your control.

This has added significance in the cooler months as the weather is often cold and unpredictable, so it’s important to prepare for every weather. 

Lauren: Nutrition and hydration are so important. Even if you’re feeling great, stay on your nutrition and hydration plan during the race. It’s amazing how quickly a race and your pace can change. When getting ready for Berlin, I reviewed the course map for water and aid stations to figure out at which points I’ll be planning to take gels or drink water. 

Millie: Having the right kit makes a massive difference. Working alongside plenty of experienced runners and kit specialists at Runners Need has taught me how to find the right kit for me. I’ve noticed a huge difference in my comfort and confidence when I’m on my training runs. I’m really happy with my shoe rotations for long and short runs and races. Plus, I’ve learned a lot about the importance of sweat-wicking fabrics and layering. On race day, I feel more confident lacing up knowing I’ve got the best kit to help me dig deep and finish well.