If you're training for a spring race, or just trying to stay in shape, and you have any kind of "regular" schedule, as in you work first shift hours, you're probably wondering when on earth you can fit a run in without it being dark. Good question. Saturday? Sunday? True, but what about during the week?
Running in the dark is, in my opinion, a refreshing change of pace from a day time run. Whether you run in a well-lit area on the safety of sidewalks, or (like me) on pitch black country roads with no shoulder, a night run gives you a different perspective on a tired route. Don't be afraid to head out just because it's dark. Trust me, it's fun, just be mindful to take a few extra precautions.
No matter when you head out, safety should always be your top priority, or perhaps I say that because I feel like being alone miles from home AND being female makes me a little more susceptible to a shady character. Tell someone where you're going, how long you estimate you'll be gone, carry a phone with you, consider not wearing headphones or turning your music down so you can hear cars, and make yourself visible...especially at night.
My runs are almost exclusively on country roads, wide enough just to allow two cars to pass by slowing way down. They have no lighting, no shoulder, and houses are few and far between. I love the peace that this offers, but it can make a night run a little more of a challenge. My winter gear (tights and sleeves) is dark, my shoes are dark, my gloves are dark...I'm not doing drivers any favors. If you plan to run at night, invest in some reflective gear, such as a vest, sleeves, or reflective tape. I have to wear a head lamp due to lack of lighting. There is definitely a learning curve to running with a lamp! It makes you trust your footing a little more than normal, I think. You might also consider a tail light. I don't personally have one, but I always think it's an investment I need to make.
Also at night, I run with no music. I prefer to run without music during races, so this is a good training opportunity for race day. It is an added measure to hear cars coming. You can never be too careful running with cars anyway, even during the day. Most drivers don't expect you to be on the road, and therefore probably are not looking out for you.
I have a (somewhat irrational) fear of being attacked by a wild animal while out at night. I'm not sure why, but I also have considered carrying pepper spray, though I never have.
On a final note, if you happen to be the driver of a vehicle passing a runner, walker, or cyclist at night, turn down your high beams! You wouldn't bright an oncoming driver. Same thing applies for those of us on foot. I can't see to get off the road and out of your way if you've got your high beams in my eyes. I always wonder what people think when they see me out in the middle of the night dressed like a fool (because it's so cold!)....I figure it's out of surprise they forget to dim the lights.
Happy holidays, and happy night running!
