If you are running the Horsetooth Half Marathon or the Colorado Marathon, you know race day weather can be unpredictable. It might be cold at the start and warm up considerably by the end of the race. A good way to prepare for this is to train for it. Get comfortable being a little cold at the start. You will warm up fast especially with the first climb of the Horsetooth Half. In most cases the temperature will also rise during the race. If you are warm when you start, you are overdressed. Being too warm will lead to a slower race time. Practice starting cold and get used to being uncomfortable during your training. When race day comes you will be able to handle any weather that comes your way!
Dr. Terry Gebhardt is a physical therapist and sports performance specialist at Colorado In Motion