Health Tip: Winter Running Safety

(HealthDay News) -- If you''re an avid runner -- or are hitting the pavement for an occasional jog -- the onset of winter shouldn''t force you to hang up your sneakers for the season.

Try these winter running safety tips from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society:

• Warm up -- your body will take a little longer to warm up, so begin with a fast-paced walk for at least five minutes before you start to run.
• To help keep you warm, toss your clothes in the dryer for a few minutes before you put them on.
• Run with a shorter stride in the winter to reduce the risk of slipping and falling. Also, stay away from icy patches or packed snow.
• Dress in layers that you can peel off when you get too warm.
• If it gets too cold, run on a treadmill indoors.
• Don''t forget to drink plenty of fluids -- before, during and after your run.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Dec. 22, 2008

Copyright © 2008 ScoutNews, LLC. All rights reserved.