Learning about waterproof gloves the hard way

So there was this  insightful blog written a while back when NP Canada had their first snowfall, or sometime when it was -20 there in Edmonton and +14 here in Ottawa. So our friends from the North are pretty trained for the harsh temperatures, and they have some credibility. I do hear that it’s a “dry cold” though- does that make it not cold? Maybe they’re just big talkers. Although I’m pretty sure -30 is really cold no matter how dry it is. Either way, you can’t deny that biting wind chill and dampness that gets you to the bone in the deep winter here in the Nation’s capital. Anyways, the whole point is that these friends from the North are vets at running NP workouts for the last 4 years, all year round, handing out -30 badges left right and centre. We got some ideas from them on ideas about how to battle those temperatures and still have a good time

1. #justshowup as you always do to November Project, because you will move and you will quickly get warm and forget about how cold it is  (if you dress properly)
2. When you #justshowup to NP, remember to dress for the weather
3. Know that this is an art that may take time to master, so be patient with yourself (i.e. last week we spent a lot of time doing footbally things and it may have been better if you had gloves, perhaps you realized that the first mountain climber or sprawl you completed, and you’ll know to bring gloves next time- maybe waterproof ones)
4. LAYERING IS KEY. It’s cold when you go outside your house and start your running commute, or hop on your bike, or hop into your car. However, you start the bounce and you get sweaty quick. Have layers to toss off.
5. The following recommendations from Andrew Ference and MEC had some suggestions. Maybe he’ll be flattered we used his information. Maybe his co-leaders will wonder why we are taking his advice. Try some things out for yourself and let your tribe members know your secrets over a burpee or a coffee. Here is a start:
   • First layer: natural fibers like merino wool wick away the sweat the best
   • Second later: natural or synthetics as a second layer to hold the heat in, a heavier long sleeve
   • Top layer: wind/water resistant layer (doesn’t have to be one of those huge puffball jackets!)
   • “an investment in good socks is worth it’s weight in gold, same goes for gloves…Shoes are key.  Tough to do anything in normal summer runners once the snow hits.  A solid pair of trail runners rules!  You won’t slip as much, you’ll stay more dry and warm, and you’ll have more support.  I like La Sportiva which MEC sells but there are a ton of options other than that.” -Andrew FerenceMost importantly,
   • #justshowup with the attitude that we are #weatherproof and it doesn’t matter what the temperature or wind chill or precipitation is. The tribe will be there ready to work no matter what.

Next week will be a perfect opportunity to try out your layers. We are doing a Sunrise 6K run and it’s an opportunity to race your butt off starting at 6AM and then stay to cheer on the tribe. Maybe even long enough to actually see the sunrise. If you finish fast, bring some extra layers to toss on so you don’t get chilled. We want to make sure everyone makes it in with some high fives and sweaty hugs because that’s what it’s all about.

Big Shout out to Caroline for her PR day win. That girl can move. And huge congrats to Rebecca – recipient of the positivity award for being such a wonderful, smiling, hard working member of this community. Let’s see where she takes her positivity next! Stay tuned on social media. Thank you for sharing you morning, your energy and your time with us.

Here’s to bringing “soles” together.

Liz and Lauren

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

1. If you didn’t read the blog but you’re reading this, SUNRISE 6K is next week. Meeting at centennial flame at 6AM. Bring layers to stay to cheer on the entire tribe! 
2. Saturday Dec.9 is #NPgivesback and #NPgivesblood – group blood donation. 9:30AM at Canadian Blood Services Join the crew for any or all of the following:

• 8am 6-8km Run with Somerset run group (Meet at Bridgehead- 282 Elgin St)
• 9:30am Blood donation (1575 Carling Ave)
• 11am brunch at Al’s Diner (834 Clyde Ave)
• Let us know if you plan on joining (or anyone you’d like to invite) and if we get enough people, Canadian Blood Services will provide the “Life Bus” to transport us!

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