In Defense of February

    For runners (and sports fans), February is always considered the dreariest month. Very few racing opportunities, ice covering the streets, and Arctic temperatures.
    But, like anything else, February running is what you make of it. Years ago, when I worked evenings, I ran outside almost all winter, taking advantage of the sunlight and reduced traffic of the mid-morning hours. A few layers of sweatshirts, and two pairs of gloves, and I was okay. Speed work was not really an option, but it was always a good time to build up or retain a mileage base.
    Now that I'm working during the day, most of my February running is on the treadmill. The "Dreadmill" is not the most exciting thing by any means, and the endorphin release does not come close to enjoying the outside and scenery. But there are ways to make it bearable, and it's a very efficient tool for speed work and pacing. Frankly, I find it tough to do long intervals on my own on the track, where on the treadmill, I can reel off mile or two-mile repeats.
    Distance running is much easier and enjoyable outside, but mentally, enduring a nine or ten-mile run on a treadmill is perfect mental preparation for the repetitiveness of a marathon. Try my favorite treadmill distance run: marathon pace during the programming, and then bumping it up one mile per hour (say, 7.0 to 8.0) during the commercials. You can even increase each commercial by .1, if you dare. Be prepared to be running out of breath for five to six-minute segments every 15 minutes or so (more, during most sporting events!).
  You also know, when the calendar hits February, the Spring races are not far off. So. you can visualize, say running the boardwalk at the end of the Long Branch Half, or down College Avenue at the finish of the Unite Half-Marathon in New Brunswick every April.
   Mid-winter is also a great time for cross-training on the elliptical, rower, or bike (I try to mix in all three), and for strength-training.
   Work through the winter blahs, and think ahead: Spring is right around the corner!
        .