Linda Donaldson: Being prepared is the key to enjoyable winter training

This week, Linda Donaldson sheds some light on training in winter...

Training during the autumn and winter months is one of my favourite times of year. While it’s colder, damp and generally unpredictable for me there is nothing nicer than being out and about running or cycling enjoying the fresh air and the changing seasons. The key to enjoying the chiller days, particularly on the bike, is to make sure you are well prepared wearing the right kit.    

When cycling I find that you know you have it right when you are sweating before you even get out of the house. Layering is the key. By layering up, you can strip down a bit if you get too hot. Find clothes that will fold away to nothing and fit in your back pocket. I have a lightweight windcheater which rolls down into the palm of my hand. Tops that have removal arms are also really worth the investment. I did spend a lot on a Gore outer layer jacket that has removal arms and I have not regretted it, although in hindsight white was perhaps a bit of a mistake given I only wear it in the winter and getting mud spray off the back can be a bit of a bother! I own a cycling jacket but I have only worn it once, it is too heavy and hot for me but I know plenty of people who prepare that to a tight fitting outer jacket.  It is certainly personal preference and maybe the fact that I often don’t feel the cold as much as others.

Arm warmers are my favourite things, it means you can still wear your short sleeved cycling tops and adjust while on the move. I have various sets but in colder months a pair of merino wool ones are so nice to wear, really cosy and comfortable and for some reason you don’t seem to sweat in them.

I also always cycle with a neckerchief. It is such a handy piece of kit as you can pull it up to cover your chin or further still to cover your mouth and nose when it is very chilly and it also keeps your neck warm. Tons on the market, very cheap and really handy. I don’t use a cap under my helmet butplenty people do, so I guess they are useful too.

Toes and fingers are the bits that tend to bother cyclists more than core warmth. I address that by wearing a pair of normal ankle socks and then knee high (yes I know) socks on top. Sealskinz are my brand of sock choice.   They are pretty expensive and I only own one pair but they work well.  When I bought mine they did not do ladies specific sizing that may have changed but a small man size fit my size 6.5 feet. I also have a pair of overshoes which help to keep your feet dry as well as toasty.  My top tip is remember to put them on before you put your shoes on. 

You should probably think about leg warmers or full length bib tights but I tend to get overly hot in full length tights so don’t own a pair and I have not found a pair of leg warmers yet that don’t make my legs look like a pair of fat overstuffed sausages. So when it’s cold I choose to add a pair of tights under my bib shorts, just standard ladies 70 or 90 denier tights under everything. It is not necessarily something I have seen anyone else do but it works for me. They don’t rub or chaff and they dry out quickly when caught in a shower. Believe me I have ridden miles like this and never had a problem.

So to the fingers… Gloves, in my experience the more you spend on a pair does not equally equate with the better they are, in fact sometimes the opposite. I have a pair of really tight fitting gloves that I have used for years, which are a pain to get on and off but they seem to work.  Although when it is particularly chilly I have seen me wear an old pair of oversized woollen gloves over the top, which makes changing gear a bit interesting but just give me an extra layer. When it’s less cold in springtime a pair of thin running gloves with fingerless cycling gloves over the top are a good option.

Finally, incorporate some bright kit when out and about on dull days and put your lights on. Being seen can save your life. Above all get out there, enjoy the season and don’t let the rain dampen your spirits or put you off your training stride. Have fun!