Many people find they ease off their running on these darker days, but there is little reason to! A few simple steps can ensure you enjoy running year round.
Running during the day is always a safer choice, but if you have to run at night or in the early morning, make sure to follow these guidelines.
Eight Simple Tips For Running At Night:
- Dress appropriately with some warmer yet breathable clothing, which can keep you warm but doesn’t make you feel like you’re over-heating on your run. Choose light colours, or reflective material. Ask at your running or sports shop to recommend the best clothing for winter running- it can really make a difference.
- Do a proper warm up. Some light jogging and dynamic stretching can help prepare the body for more explosive running. See the other great post by Sydney Physiotherapy Solutions about warm-ups.
- Run in an area with street lighting to allow you to see the cracks and pot holes in the pavement to prevent any unwanted ankle injuries.
- Carry ID with you. Whether it’s a driver’s licence in your pocket or an ID bracelet, it will prove useful in case of an accident.
- Run a familiar route. Tonight is not the time to explore that part of the neighbourhood where you have never been.
- If you run in dark or wooded areas, which are more isolated, it might be a good idea to leave the headphones at home, so you are more aware of your surroundings. You may also consider running with a group or partner – this can be more fun as well.
- It’s always good to let someone know you’re out for a run, so get in the habit of letting a friend or partner know you’re heading out, and the time you expect to be back.
- Always run against traffic.It is easier to avoid cars if you can see them coming.
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