7 Tips For Running Late At Night

Running at night is a great workout. Some people like myself prefer to run at night for several reasons. It is cooler especially during the hot summer months. Another good thing about running at night is the relaxation of less people out. The roads are quieter since there are less cars and less noise to stress you out. Less cars on the road also means less pollution for you to inhale. With all the comforts aside, it is important to be prepared while running late at night. If you get too comfortable, you can get seriously hurt or even worse. You shouldn't prepare for a late night run the way you would for a day time run. Here are some running tips to follow during the late hours.

I live in a pretty shady neighborhood so I never take anything for grant. No one is taken lightly no matter how they appear. One thing I always do when I go out for a late night run is I carry my knife. Check with your state laws on what is legal to carry. I legally carry my blade with me everywhere I go but I double and triple check when I go out for a run. You never know what is going to happen and it's always smart to be prepared. Here's a tip when carrying a knife. Make sure you get a knife that is easy to deploy and make sure the blade is shiny. Do not get the knives with a stealth black coating. Part of deploying a blade is for intimidation. If you are cornered, you want to make sure the other person sees the blade. Be responsible when carrying a knife. I could go on and on about this but I'll assume you are mature an responsible enough to know the potential consequences from using a knife on a person. 

The next thing I make sure to do is where bright or reflective clothing. I don't worry about this as much as I used to but it's a good idea to be very visible so cars can see you. I have the new generation of Nike running shoe and I believe most running shoes have them now also. They have reflective fabrics on the back of them that increases your visibility. This is especially important when you need to cross the street. I've seen many cars that speed late at night and I can only guess that some of these drivers are intoxicated. Also beware of cars that do not have their lights on. Stay visible. Stay safe.

Do not, I repeat, do not wear head phones. Leave the tunes at a closed track with many people running or during the day. If you are like me and you like to run around the city, do not listen to music while you run. It may get boring but it's important that you stay alert. When your eyesight is handicapped, you must rely on your other senses. For late night running, your ears are the next best thing. Keep your ears opened for danger. It will help you hear cars and people. Likewise, do not wear your sunglasses at night. It's just common sense. 

When running, it's always a good idea to keep your pockets light. Only carry what you need. When I got out for a late night run, I carry my keys, some cash, and my phone. I leave the wallet at home. If you have a full keyring, consider making copies of just your house keys and carry those when you run. There is nothing more uncomfortable than running with tons of heavy objects in your pocket. Keep your pockets light and your focus will stay on the path ahead. Having a heaving keyring bounce around in your pocket is very annoying.

Prepare to sweat. When you sweat, it will get uncomfortable and you will want your clothes to dry off as quickly as possible. While this tip is not too urgent, it's a good idea to keep in mind. Try to wear as much synthetic materials as possible. Synthetics are lighter than cotton and they dry much faster. Cotton based clothing tends to get wet and stay wet while synthetics are lighter and will dry much faster. Controlling sweat and staying dry means more comfort.

The last thing I like to do when I got out for a late night run is get a running partner. Having someone to run with will cure most of these problems. It will be safer because of strength in numbers and you will have an extra set of eyes and ears to catch danger. It will also give you something to talk about curing the boredom a lonely run can cause. Having a running partner is great but it is definitely not required to enjoying a good late/early hour run. I've noticed while running with a partner, there is a tendency to look after one another. It may be something simple as an obstacle on the road or a fast moving car. Having a running partner is up there on list.

The main focus on enjoying a good late night run is be visible, be alert, and be safe. Don't let some of these tips scare you from running at night. For the most part, running at night is quiet, calming, and relaxing. These are tips are suggestions I give and  precautions I take when I lace up my Nikes. One last bit of advice. Be sure to run on well lit roads where traffic is frequent. Don't stray off back roads and alley ways. Remember to always use common sense. 

In summary:

• Carry a knife
• Be visible
• Don't wear headphones
• Run with light pockets
• Wear synthetics
• Run with a partner if you can
• And use common sense !!!

I hope these tips help you. Thanks for reading and keep running!