Learning to Love Winter Running

By: Magi Scallion

No matter where you live in Canada, you can expect to have some sort of winter weather to deal with every year. As we all know, winter running is simply not as nice as summer running and the motivation to get out there can be lacking.

I use the winter months to heal my body from big summer mileage but cross-training on my cross country skis. At one point in my life I was an aspiring Olympic cross country ski racer but those days have passed. Now I’m just trying to lead a healthy, active lifestyle year round!

I strongly recommend cross country skiing to any runner or cyclist as great way to cross train during the winter. Cross country skiing is very similar to swimming in that it uses your entire body and has very little impact. The huge advantage of cross country skiing is that you can do it outside – so you still get the fresh air and scenery that most of us love about running.

There will be a bit of a learning curve to get your ski feet under you, so I do recommend that you get a lesson or two from a local ski shop or ski club. Lessons run in the $30-$60 / hour range but are totally worth the money, especially if you’re an absolute beginner.

There are two types of cross country skiing: classical technique and skate technique. Classic is easier to learn but harder to do well and many feel like you don’t get as good of a “workout.” Skate skiing is harder to learn but easier to learn to do well. The added bonus of skate skiing is that you don’t need to deal with grip wax or fish scales, which you have to in classic skiing.

There are many great places to ski across Canada such as:

• Newfoundland: Corner Brook (Blow-me-Down Park)
• New Brunswick: Charlo (Les Aventuriers)
• Quebec: Mont-Sainte-Anne
• Ontario: Ottawa (Gatineau Park) or Toronto (Hardwood Hills)
• Alberta: Canmore Nordic Centre
• British Columbia: Invermere (Nipika Mountain Resort) or Whistler (Whistler Olympic Park)

If you’re wondering what to wear – just dress like you’re going for a winter run. I recommend warm socks (thin or thick), tights and long underwear, a couple technical shirts and a jacket, toque and gloves. Be ready to peel off some layers as you heat up!

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Born in Nova Scotia and emigrating to British Columbia via Ontario and Alberta, Magi has been running the entire way. Primarily defined as a cross country ski racer, Magi has competed nationally and internationally in that sport. The highlight of her career was competing in the World University Games and the World Cup races in Canada in 2007. Cross country skiers rely heavily on running for cross training and Magi has become an accomplished trail and mountain runner, representing Canada at the World Mountain Running Championships in 2005 and the winning numerous national championships medals.

Today Magi runs for fun… and it’s a lot of fun! Epic mountain runs, city cruises with friends, and more keep her happy and occupied outside of work and school.