Every December, some ambitious runners in Saskatoon pledge to run at least one mile every day, regardless of weather, holiday parties, travel or other seasonal excuses.
In 2012, Brian Breit was one of those runners.
He started what he thought was a month-long run streak on Dec. 1, 2012 and has run every day since.
Next week, on Dec. 1, he will celebrate the seven-year anniversary of his run streak with more than 4,700 kilometres logged. And he has no plans of stopping.
Breit, now 60, shared some tips with the Brainsport Times for runners who are thinking of embarking on their own running streaks next month.
Adjust your stride to the conditions
Starting a run streak in December typically means running on snow and ice. Shorten your stride and be careful — otherwise you could end up slipping, getting hurt and missing days of running.
Stay visible
December run streakers are running during the shortest days of the year, which means many runs might be done in the dark. Wear reflective clothing that’s visible to drivers, cyclists and other runners. Getting hit by a car would be an unfortunate reason to end a run streak.
Stay hydrated
When it’s chilly out, people don’t feel as thirsty as they do on warmer days, even though breathing cold, dry air causes the body to lose lots of fluids. Drink regardless of thirst to stay healthy throughout the streak.
Streak with friends
Encouraging friends and family to participate in a run streak helps everyone stay motivated. And running streaks aren’t just for adults; whole families can make it a goal to run together every day in December too.
Enjoy some holiday spirit
Make the December runs fun by exploring new neighbourhoods and checking out people’s Christmas lights and decorations.
Get creative when travelling
If you’ve got a long layover in an airport over the holidays, throw on some running shoes and jog around the terminal. It doesn’t matter where you get your runs done — just that they happen.
Don’t forget to stretch
Stretching, rolling and strength exercises are important for staying injury-free throughout a running streak.
—
For more on Brian’s story on how he’s been able to run so long, check out his profile on the Brainsport blog.
To engage with runners embarking on a December run streak, visit the Brainsport Run Streak Facebook group.