It’s a tricky situation.
You finally get to a point where you feel like running has actually become part of your routine, and SLAM. Daylight Savings knocks you straight off your groove.
It’s like it’s dark ALL THE TIME.
So of course I got really mad and I complained too much, as if my verbal victims could somehow return all that daylight that Mother Nature has been saving (aka hoarding) for herself if I just continued my sob story a little longer.
Sitting down with a group of runners that Go! Running’s Erin Taylor pulled together, I laid it all out on the table.
The knowing nods and shrugs around the circle were blessed assurance, as well as a healthy reminder that no, Jess, you aren’t the first person on planet Earth to juggle a busy schedule, and also yes, running in the dark is quite the novel idea, you dope.
I walked away with no pity, just a pick-me-p and a checklist of safety measures and precautions for when, not if, I went on dark runs.
Don’t Go Solo
Safety in numbers and all that junk. Whenever absolutely possible, go with a group, a friend or even your pet. And if you do go alone, tell someone where you’ll be and when they can expect you back.
Use Your Brain
It may be a little rusty, but just take a second and plan your route, taking consideration of the relative safety of the area. Avoid unpopulated areas, poorly lit streets and overgrown trails. Basically, if a thing looks like it belongs in a horror movie, you should avoid that thing. And be less predictable by changing up your route and stop posting on social media all about where you’re headed.
Get Visual
You’d think people would know not to go running in the dark wearing all black, and yet it happens all the time. Look for the highlighter shades when choosing your clothing, which are about a billion times more visible to drivers than black or even white. Reflective gear is a must, especially when it’s on highly mobile body parts, like your hands and feet. The Brooks Nightlife Collection is pretty sweet. Check it out at Go! Running. You might also consider actual light-up accessories like belts, hat and shoe clips.
Play Offense
Stay alert and aware of your surrounding at all times. Ditch the headphones (I know) and keep your head on a swivel for any unusual sights or sounds.
Go Your Own Way
Yeah, it feels weird, and I know it’s the opposite for bikes, but runners should always go against traffic. It’s best for you to be able to see oncoming cars just in case they don’t see you first.
Bring Your Tools
True preparedness means you don’t leave home empty handed. Always have your cell phone on you and carry identification. If you want to feel doubly safe, put one of these on your Christmas list.
Trust the Gut
Just as importantly, you have to go with your intuition. It exists for a reason (thanks, caveman). If a person or place seems too weird, get out of there.
I know, I know. It may not seem ideal, but at the very least, it will make you appreciate your weekend long runs even more. And who knows? You may end up liking it, imagining you’re the Caped Crusader flying down the street, picking off villains (miles) as you go.
But it’s probably best if you don’t sing theme songs as you go. Advice from… a friend.