Resource Wednesday: The Blister Special

This has been a week so far where I am grateful I am a runner because it allows me to be better at life. There is something about pushing endless through “suck” in a run and knowing it all ends up ok which is a perfect model for when it happens in life.

A few things like my best friend and roomie is moving to the other side of the country. So if you are interested in a beautiful apartment in Waterloo, send me an email!

Or like how yesterday on my way to the gym, I was in a car accident. And when I went to police station to report it, a motorist repeatedly slammed into my car, causing the second accident in 3 hours?

That kind of suck.

Things that affect the spring in your step and can distract your focus. But the good news is, running already has my back and has taught me all about moving forward, despite pain or road blocks.

Like the latest lesson that running has taught me:

It began a number of weeks ago. I was 20 KM into a long run and I felt my sock rubbing on the arch of my foot. I knew it would be a doozy of a blister, but it was nothing I haven’t dealt with before as my feet often develop blisters on top of blisters throughout an average run season.

Well, I had another think coming. This turned into the mother of all blisters, spanning the entire left arch of my foot, leaving me limping around and affecting my run stride. At first, I thought I would just tough it out and it would go away, but it is a very aggressive little thing and clearly here to stay so I have become best friends with bandaids and polysporin.

So this has been terrible and I do not want it to happen to you.

How to Prevent Blisters in Winter Running –

1. Wear the right socks. The right socks are super important when it comes to blister prevention. Socks provide extra support for your feet, keep moisture away, and can minimize the friction that leads to those nasty blisters. Steer clear of cotton socks, though, which soak up sweat and moisture and, as a result, are most likely to cause blisters. Try nylon socks instead, which allow for more breathability and less moisture buildup on the foot. Some runners also swear by wicking socks, a wool blend sock that pulls moisture away from feet.

2. Check your shoes. If your shoes are old or worn, they will affect your stride and cause blisters. Remember to switch them up every 500 KM. Make sure that your shoes are comfortable and are fitting you correctly.

3. Use blister aid. I like 2 Toms BlisterSheild which is a powder that you can pour into your socks or a wipe that you use on your feet to keep blisters at bay.

4. Use Body Glide. I use Body Glide everywhere to ensure that I am not chafing and have begun using it on my feet as well to prevent blisters. Works like a charm!

5. Use good form. Running with poor form will affect your stride and can cause blisters. Make sure you are landing with feet below your hips and running with a midfoot strike. 

How do you keep blisters at bay during winter running?

The Runner’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Blisters – Greatist

Best Running Socks of 2014 – Janji