Thinking of burning calories by running in the dark and cold?
Running in cold weather in the wind, rain, or snow is not easy!
But there's many benefits, such as;
- Relieve stress
- Burning fat
- Burn calories
- Build muscle
- And more..
Leaving the comfort of your warm bed and cozy blanket in winter is tougher than the actual training, regardless of being a marathon runner or a beginner.
With the arrival of shorter days and longer nights, most people with jobs are frequently forced to run in the dark as if the chilly weather wasn't enough of an obstacle on its own.
Running in the dark winter can be intimidating; however, with the right precautions and mindset, you can enjoy your regular runs safely, even in the most hostile weather conditions.
Let the Night Buddy team share 6 tips for running in the dark and cold weather:
6 Tips For Running in the Cold and Dark
Here's a list of tips that'll help you have a safe and enjoyable run in the dark winter!
#1 Dress Well, Stay Well
Whether your goal is running longer or faster, improving fitness, or losing weight, an extra layer of clothing can help you stay safe. The right running clothes can help you stay warm and adapt to the changing weather by dressing in several layers.
Wearing a warm insulating running layer on top of a sweat-wicking layer next to your skin will help you keep warm. However, avoid cotton since it absorbs moisture.
Proper running shoes are also an essential requirement. Some appropriate winter running shoes are hybrid trail and road shoes for running over snow or even mild winters. Winter shoes also have a tighter grip and are water-resistant to avoid getting soggy while running over slush.
Clothing can also help you increase visibility in the dark. Wearing reflective clothing, such as a vest or shoes, will make you more visible to car drivers and pedestrians in case the area you are running in isn't well-lit.
#2 Have a Source of Light
It's encouraged to take well-lit routes; however, if not available in your area, carrying a head torch or headlamp is one of the best tips to overcome the challenges of running in the dark.
A personal light source can help you be more visible at night and avoid obstacles like potholes and rocks. It also provides a sense of security and control in an environment with limited visibility, improving the runner's mental state.
A versatile lighting solution is the Night Buddy 230 LED headlamp (also see our led head torch for runners). It's designed to be durable and weather resistant. More than that, it's made with high-quality breathable materials and features an adjustable headband along with four different levels of brightness. The headlamp can light up even the darkest trails and is an eco-friendly and cost-effective option.
#3 Warm up Indoors
Warming up indoors before running in the cold is a good idea since it allows you to regulate your body temperature and increases blood flow to your muscles.
This protects the muscles from frigid temperatures, reducing the risk of injuries such as hypothermia. It also helps to prepare muscles for a faster workout.
Practicing cross-training or a slower endurance workout before actual running can also help you cope with the harsh wind chill outside.
#4 Take Familiar Routes
When running in the dark, choose a well-known route, as it'll give you confidence and comfort because you'll already be familiar with the running route's;
- landscape
- depth perception
- any potential dangers
It's always best to stay on fresh paths, which are safer and less likely to encounter black ice.
#5 The More, The Merrier
Survive running in the colder months by accompanying a running group. Running with more people won't only provide moral support but will also help you stay motivated.
Not to mention, running in a group or someone's company ensures the safety and additional support in an emergency.
#6 Stay Alert and Keep Your Mobile Close
Other safety tips that are important to follow are having your cell phone close by in case of an emergency and informing at least one person of your whereabouts. It's also a good idea to have identification on you in case you get hurt or lost.
Other than that, you should stay alert and watch out for vehicles, cyclists, and other pedestrians. This is crucial when jogging at night because visibility is decreased. Runners should also avoid listening to music while traveling in the dark since it's important to keep all your senses vigilant.
Below, we address all your worries about running when it's cold and dark, so read on to get all your questions answered.
Challenges to Look Out For
Winter running can be a subject of difficulty and challenges if the required safety measures are ignored.
Generally, running in cold weather can increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Also, the decreased visibility in the dark can make it more challenging to avoid dangers like;
- low-hanging branches
- uneven pavement
- slippery ice patches
- falling
- etc.
Moreover, many people may have trouble breathing in cold, dense air, and the calm, dark surroundings might make them an easy target for criminal activities like snatching.
Remember that running in the cold and dark requires proper preparation and precautions, which is why our next point highlights major tips you can use to make your running experience safe and enjoyable.
Benefits of Running During the Chilly Season
Here's a brief roundup of benefits you get to enjoy if you run during winter.
- Health benefits
Running in cold weather helps maintain fitness and keeps the body's core temperature constant. This increases endurance and cardiovascular fitness. Running in the morning or night can also aid in regulating your circadian rhythm, improving the sleep cycle.
What's more, inflammation in the body is reduced through regular running, and the dense cold air helps improve your lung's capacity by making them work harder for oxygen.
- Mental Benefits
Despite being an extremely challenging activity, running in the cold and gloomy can help increase mental toughness and resilience. Pushing through all the challenges and completing your goal in difficult circumstances can help boost confidence and give you extra motivation.
To Wrap Up
If you don't want to take a break from running during the colder months, you should abide by a few rules to make your runs safer. F
or example, you should wear extra layers of running clothing, take a source of light, warm up indoors beforehand, and take familiar routes.
It'll also help if you run in groups and keep your mobile close in case you need it for an emergency call.
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