The end of daylight saving time means that many of us will be running in the dark. For safety reasons, try going on a morning run instead. Wake up at the same time you did during DST and use that "extra" hour for an outdoor run.
If running at night is unavoidable, make sure to follow these tips to protect yourself in the dark:
- Make sure others can see you. Make yourself visible to drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and other runners by wearing bright colors and reflective gear. For extra caution, wear a headlamp or attach blinking bike lights to your clothing.
- Run in familiar, well-lit areas. Running a familiar route may protect you from unseen bumps or potholes. To ensure a clear running path, find an area that is lit by streetlamps or hit up an outdoor track.
- Be aware. Because running at night cuts down on your line of sight, you want to make sure you can hear clearly — run without an iPod, MP3 player, or Walkman. Make eye contact to alert those around you of your presence. This is especially important to do with drivers when you're crossing the street.
- Carry a cell phone and ID. Keep a cell phone with you in the event of an emergency, and always carry identification in case you sustain an injury.
- Run with a buddy. There's safety in numbers, so always try and run with a buddy. You'll be more visible and can rely on one another if something goes wrong. If you do run alone, make sure to tell someone the route you're running and around what time you'll be back.
- Run against traffic. You have a better chance of seeing cars and drivers have a better chance of seeing you.
- Change up your routine. Run a few different routes and at different times through the week. Potential attackers may catch on to routines.
For more safety tips, read more.
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Source: Getty
Woodhouse Clothing
I commute on my bicycle, and last night was the first night I did it since the time change. I was so shocked at the number of people out running in the dark with no reflective gear, no lights, no nothing. I have a really powerful headlight, and I still came right up behind some people before I saw them. If you can't buy reflective clothing, then at least put on a white t-shirt rather than a black one.
1I need those purple tights! ^^
2Running in the dark scares me. I'll stick to the treadmill until spring forward
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