The Perth running scene is rapidly growing and people are turning to the sport to stay active.
Warm summer days and balmy nights are slowly being taken over by shorter and cooler days. As winter approaches it is easy to put the exercise regime on the backburner for a few months. But there are many reasons to continue running during the winter months.
Winters in Perth are mild compared to most parts of Europe and America. While we do get the odd frosty morning, in general, we have it pretty good. You may get stuck in the rain during a run, but the feeling of satisfaction after the session your friend who bailed when they checked the weather forecast didn’t get, is worth it. Completing sessions in tough conditions can give you added motivation to stick to a running plan.
Perth has so many fantastic running routes and it seems crazy to abandon them for a few months of the year.
Narrows/Causeway Bridge loop
In the city, a Narrows/Causeway Bridge loop is a flat and scenic 10km route taking in Elizabeth Quay and South Perth Foreshore.
Kings Park
Venture up to King’s Park or Bold Park for some elevation and explore the bush trails both have to offer.
Matilda Bay
A Matilda Bay run from the Nedlands Foreshore and along Mounts Bay road will take you past the famous statue of Eliza.
Coastal
Opt for a coastal run and get on the footpaths anywhere from South Beach Freo to Hillarys and it’s hard to get sick of the views. The Applecross and Attadale Foreshores from Point Walter to Heathcoate provide punters with flat paths which are perfect for an intervals session.
Running Loops
Other loops including Lake Monger (3.5km), Canning/Mt Henry Bridge (6.7km), Lake Joondalup (17.4km), and Herdsman (7.4km) are very popular with runners all year round.
Helena Valley and Darlington
Helena Valley and Darlington has some excellent gravel sections to explore for more experienced runners.
Just remember to carry plenty of water, nutrition, a phone, and if possible run with a friend for added safety. When running in the dark, you should consider wearing a headlamp or torch to become more visible to motorists, cyclists, and other runners.
Perth Running Events
Whether you’re a recreational runner or slightly more competitive, the upcoming months provide plenty of opportunities to compete in events.
The HBF Run for a Reason (May 22) and City to Surf (August 28) are crowd favourites and draw huge numbers.
Other events such as the Perth Marathon (June 12), Women’s Classic (June 26) and Perth Half Marathon (August 7) are held in the cooler and more running friendly winter months. Every weekend runners can be challenged by a number of events varying in distance. Lake Monger (May 29, 3k and 10k options) is a great chance for a beginner or family to get involved, while the 100 mile ‘Waterous Trail on Foot’ off road event (September 24) is not for the faint hearted!
The key to running improvement and success comes from consistency. Don’t let the cooler and shorter days get in the way of achieving a longer term goal. So lace up those shoes, find a friend or two, and see you out there pounding the pavement!
