By Hilary McCloy, Paradis Pro Ambassador, US Ski Team Alum & Physical Therapist
As the days get longer and the trails dry out, runners everywhere start itching to log more miles. Whether you're coming off a winter of skiing, cross-training, or just hibernating a little (no shame in that!), transitioning into a steady running routine takes some thought. I’ve been through this cycle many times—first as an elite skier using running for training and now as a physical therapist helping athletes stay strong and injury-free.
Before you lace up and go full send, let’s talk about how to make this transition smooth, sustainable, and strong. From smart mileage increases to choosing the right gear (yes, even your underwear matters), here are six things you should know to set yourself up for a successful running season. Let’s get into it!
If you’ve spent the winter skiing, snowboarding, or doing low-impact workouts, your muscles and tendons aren’t quite ready for the repetitive impact of running. Ease in with shorter runs, soft surfaces (like trails or grass), and cross-training days to help your body adapt.
A few minutes of calf stretching, toe spreading, spinal twists, and hip openers can make a big difference in how your body feels on the run. Running tight is a recipe for injury—so loosen up before and after your workouts.
Running more doesn’t automatically make all your important running muscles stronger. A dedicated strength program—focusing on glutes, core, and lower-leg stability—will make you more efficient and less injury-prone.
Spring sunshine feels amazing—until you realize you just got your first burn of the season. Your winter skin is extra vulnerable, so lather up with sunscreen before heading out. Bonus points for wearing a hat or visor!
It’s tempting to go all in when the weather warms up, but slow and steady wins the race. A safe rule of thumb is to increase your total weekly mileage by no more than five miles per week to avoid overuse injuries.
As you gear up for running season, remember: consistency beats intensity when it comes to long-term progress. Take care of your body, choose gear that moves with you (like Paradis Sport’s performance underwear—because chafing is NOT a spring vibe), and enjoy every mile!
Your quads and hamstrings do a lot of heavy lifting when you run, and if they’re tight, your knees and hips will pay the price. Make foam rolling or using a massage tool a regular part of your routine to keep them happy.
Ready to hit the ground running? Take it slow, stay strong, and don’t forget the little things that make a big difference—like mobility, strength, and the right gear. Paradis Sport’s performance underwear is designed to move with you—no ride-ups, no chafing, just all-day comfort so you can focus on your run, not your underwear.
