Some people tend to run at night while others, in the early hours of the morning. This can come about because of a narrow morning program, diet preferences, or a desire for the breeze’s energy as the end of the day approaches.
Although running at night can be risky for various reasons, you can take steps to minimize the chance of injury and reduce risk.
Suppose it is too humid after sunrise, or the days are too short, or the long hours at work means night time is the only time you get to run. If that’s the case, let’s figure out how you can stay safe while running at night and still get all the added benefits that come with it.
Benefits of Running at Night
If you live in a safe neighbourhood, running at night may become your preferred option if it isn’t already. Some of the benefits include, but are not limited to:
- It Sets a Good Pace for Exercise
Running at night sets a good pace for exercising in the evening. After all, you’ve had the whole day to pump your body with proteins and healthy snacks, meaning your body is well prepared for the run.
- It Reduces Stress
It is an ordinary reality that running lowers body and mental tension. This is due to a particular body trick many of the ardent athletes call a runner’s high. That is the exciting feeling you experience after completing a workout, which is caused by brain endorphins. That isn’t a legend; it’s a fact!
When you hit the runner’s high, the brain’s endorphins serve as standard painkillers for treating pain or irritation that you may experience as you run.
They also act as natural mood promoters and enhance one’s mood within hours of the exercise. This means that a daily late evening running experience will help lower your overall stress levels.
- It Improves Your Sleep
Usually, after exercise, your body has been exerted enough to make it want to slow down and rest. This enhances your sleep quality and quantity as your body repairs itself. After running, taking a hot shower or bath will make you relax and sleep deeper. End the runs with a cool-down exercise to make your body gradually engage into a restful state.
- You’re Likely to Make It A Routine You Can Follow
Unlike going to the gym that is time-consuming and requires travel hours, running can quickly become a routine because of the convenience combined with the added benefits it gives you. A quick shower once you’re back home, and you can focus on something else.
- You Have More Time
Running at night affords you the leisure and peace of mind of knowing your day is over and you have achieved all you could. It takes the pressure off having to think about everything you have set out for the day, as you would in a morning run. This affords you ample time to run as much as you can push yourself without mental distractions.
Safety Tips
Running at night without taking the necessary safety measures beats the purpose as you will merely be putting yourself at risk.
- Run in a Well-Lit Area
You do not want to fall into a ditch you didn’t see and injure yourself. Running in a well-lit area is safer as you can see any predators who may be lurking in the shadows, and it also gives you a better site of the road.
- Leave Your Headphones at Home
Running requires you to be fully alert, and with your sight already compromised due to the night, you need your full hearing. This allows you to hear cars or any other sounds that would be a warning of pending danger.
- Wear Reflective Strips
Reflective strips worn on top of your running jacket increases your visibility to other road users. It is always safer if you are seen, especially to drivers and riders. It helps prevent accidents.
- Carry Your Phone
Anything can go wrong at any point, and it’s best to have the capability to reach out if the need arises. This applies to whether you are running at night or during the day.
- Waterproof Running Jacket
Always ensure you choose high quality waterproof running jackets to help prevent the weather elements from interfering with your runs. This store has top brands like Icebreaker, Salomon, Asics, The North Face, Adidas, Nike and New Balance.
