Indoor running

From the moment Heather and I decided to take the Ministry's position in Timmins, we knew running would get tough in the winter. I've lived and run in Minneapolis, Madison, Ottawa, and Suwon, Korea. Each place had its difficulties regarding running Korea was the worst, due to lack of running courses and crowding.

But Timmins is very cold in winter--probably 7-10 degrees colder than Minneapolis. So, as in Korea, the treadmill will be of help. We bought ours last week, and today I used it for the first time. Boring? Yes. But you do tend to get in higher quality running while on it.

In Korea, I would do two-a-days; the first run on the dirt soccer field for 30 minutes. Later, I'd go on the treadmill for 30 minutes. It was good for speed, but I don't think I ever got into marathon shape with that routine. I believe you've got to run over 45 minutes or so to start to get any real endurance benefits. I only did that once a week over there, on Saturdays.

But here, I think the tread will be put to more productive use, since there will be lots of chances to run outside if I bundle up. And perhaps the tread will help out with the injuries.