TIPS FROM THE PROS FOR RUNNING IN WINTER DARKNESS
Tips from the Pros for Running in the Winter Darkness
Let’s be real for a minute. For most Midwesterners, winter is the hardest time of year to be a runner. It’s gray and cold, and gets dark early… like, really early. But if you’re at all like us, we’d rather run outside in the quiet, cold darkness of night than on the treadmill in a brightly lit, heated gym.
But running in the cold at night takes preparation and awareness. Coach Karen and Coach Amy at RunFit have thoughtfully compiled a list of tips and products to keep runners safe - from the elements and from the ill-intentioned.
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT
When darkness falls, ensuring that you’re visible to motorists, cyclists and other passers-by is crucial. We love this Noxgear Tracer 2 vest. Noxgear also launched their Tracer Lamp, a clip on light that makes it a cinch to spot icy patches and uneven ground, helping you avoid slips and falls.
GET SOME TRACTION ACTION
When the temps plummet and the snow falls, it’s important to have more traction than normal road running shoes can offer. Depending on the conditions you can choose several options to increase traction.
Trail running shoes, which have bigger lugs, will help with grip. We like On Cloudultras, which are designed to perform on all types of terrain while boasting significant cushion. Staying upright while performing in slick conditions is well worth the $180 investment.
Cleats that stretch over your existing running shoes are another great option, and boy have they come a long way. Kahtoola Nano Spikes offer lightweight traction provided by 10 small tungsten-carbide spikes that stick into the black ice and mixed snow typically found on winter asphalt. Snag a pair for around $50 on Amazon.
Looking for a solution that is far less expensive? Head on over to your local hardware store and pick up ⅜” sheet metal screws with hex heads. Drill those babies into the outer portion of the soles and head out the door. Just be sure not to wear them on your hardwood floors… take it from us.
PERSONAL SAFETY FIRST
Too many headlines over the past year have reminded us that we cannot place enough emphasis on personal safety when running. Here are some do’s and don’ts from the pros about personal safety, and they ring true regardless of time of year.
DO find a well lit route. This time of year we recommend sticking closer to city streets that are lined with lights versus unoccupied trails at night.
DON’T run the same route every day. Switch it up so potential trouble-makers won’t know where you might be running from one day to the next.
DO let a friend know the route you will be taking and the approximate time you will be back.
DO use your technology. If you wear a Garmin, set up the safety features which will notify your emergency contacts if an incident has been detected. Set up LiveTrack which will show your location to friends you have selected.
DON’T forget your phone and if you feel at all concerned that you are unsafe, dial 911.
DO check out the tools at GoGuarded. Their selection of self-defense products are comfortable, convenient, and an effective way to defend yourself if the unthinkable should happen.
DO run with a friend or join a local running club like Badgerland Striders, F.E.A.R. Milwaukee, or The Milwaukee Running Group - OMG. After all, there is safety in numbers.
Still not convinced that running in the dark is right for you? We’ve got you covered! Click here to sign up for a Stride session at RunFit. Enjoy the feel of our Woodway Treadmills under your feet while getting essential coaching tips and motivation from Coach Peter!