Winter running

[BellaJ]

Hi - I'm a recent graduate of couch to 5k and am now doing consolidation runs some short to try and build up pace and some longer to extend my distance a bit. I would like some advice from more seasoned runners about what to do as the dark nights and mornings draw in. I live in a semi rural area and the roads and lanes near me are poorly lit (If lit at all) - what do you all do in the winter?? Do I get a florescent jacket and run anyway. Was kind of hoping to cancel my gym membership as since I started running don't go there that often. As well as running 3-4 times a week I also walk and do Pilates. Should I keep the gym membership and run on the treadmill as the nights get darker ? Some wise words of advice would be appreciated ! Many thanks

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate10]

Save your money on the gym fees... a head torch... and high viz gear is cheaper... I have a high viz jacket and a flashing belt... front and back... and head torch.... The wildlife on the fields really appreciate it

Early morning winter running is amazing.. and often, we are the only folk out there....

But, being well lit is necessary for the road or lane bits of our runs and we need the head torch for the uneven off road bits... there are loads of bargains to be had ...

Also.... make sure contacts know where you are running... and I wear an alarm bracelet too..in case I am attacked by a crazy badger

[Sandraj39 Graduate10]

I run after work during the week so these runs will soon be dark. Hi- viz gear is good plus I also have a running chest light which I bought from Decathalon a couple of winter's ago - it's fab! Or of course you can buy a head torch. I have also recently bought a personal alarm velcro wristband, as I sometimes run down some quite isolated roads, albeit in what I consider to be a safe neighbourhood. I quite like running in the dark now actually - I find it quite calming and peaceful. Good luck.☺

[dindy Graduate10]

I have also been wondering what to buy for safety come the darker nights.In my case mornings and it is already dark.

I have read that Hi-Vi jackets etc are good during daylight hours but not so good at night. For more rural areas they recommend Reflective clothing is better than Hi -Viz???? I was thinking of getting a Reflect 360 Running X-Vest @ £29.99 is a lot cheaper than buying a new jacket. If you look on Proviz site the vest looks bright white at night.???

Apart from good quality torch maybe some angle or/and arm/ wrist Hi-Viz bands.One of the posts does say which torch is best for rural unlit roads as the cheaper ones do not give a good beam to see where you are going or for motorists to see you.

Like Bellaj and I am sure a lot of other members I am also interested in what other members wear to keep seen and safe.Thanks

[BriC18]

Do the head torches give sufficient light to prevent trips and potentially injuries?

[AnnieW55 in reply to BriC18]

Yep, that’s why we wear them, especially if doing trails. But then accidents can happen in broad daylight so it’s an aid, not a given that you won’t trip/fall whilst wearing one. Lots of different kinds on sale. Personally I prefer the headtorches that have a strap going over the head as well as round it as I find it easier, and more comfortable to stay in place. The higher the lumens the brighter the light. Don’t forget a red light needed/useful safety-wise for the back if running on the road.

[BriC18 in reply to AnnieW55]

Must be my eyesight.. using mine for walking I struggle on uneven ground

[AnnieW55 in reply to BriC18]

It’s the lumens that make the difference, the higher the brighter. Tip below comes from the link further Dow.

“Look for up to 100 lumens for running in urban partially lit streets; up to 300 lumens if you need cars and road users to see you; over 300 lumens if you are hitting unlit trails.”

expertreviews.co.uk/outdoor...

[BriC18 in reply to AnnieW55]

I'm beginning to suspect it might be my night vision. I've always struggled with foot placement in half light and the dark when coming off mountains. Mine's supposedly 150 lumens and no better than previous torches - will have a think, splash out on a dearer one or stick to well lit areas

[BellaJ]

Thanks folks - some good advice here

[Martin_Peagam Graduate10]

I live in Northern England and love winter running.

Maybe it's that I am masochistic, but the cold, icy mornings add an extra dimension to the run. Sweat turning to icicles. Frost-bitten fingers and toes. Wonderful.

Never used a torch myself - all that extra weight to carry!

I just wait until it's on the cusp of dawn breaking through and follow a route I am familiar with, so as to avoid holes, kerbstones and other potential hazards.

Do wear a reflective jacket, not a high visibility one, though, as it helps those darn motorists and cyclists spot you early enough. Avoids all the hassle of legal claims after the accident

Finally, why pay gym membership fees. I cannot see the point of gyms - you pay a fortune (to fat people smoking cigars on some tropical beach far away), you are surrounded by people trying to freak you into believing that you are not bodily perfection (when we know you are), and you do not get to commune with beautiful nature. And when did you last hear if someone coming out of the gym with frostbite?

Enjoy!

[BellaJ in reply to Martin_Peagam]

Yes you are quite right plus I hate running on treadmills. The pleasure in running for me has been in enjoying being outside. Will definitely try some of the suggestions that have been made. I will stop eradicating and save myself some money on gym fees !!

[Dexy5 Graduate10 in reply to Martin_Peagam]

I’d just like to be a bit contentious and show a bit of support for gyms/sports centres. On my non running days I am able to go to the gym to take part in Pilates and Yogalates classes, which provides core strengthening beneficial to running as well as aquarobics or swimming in a friendly environment. It is not all about pumping iron.

[BellaJ in reply to Dexy5]

I couldn't agree more with you really- I really used to enjoy my aqua aerobics and other classes but changes in my work patterns and other family commitments meant that I couldn't go when my favourite classes were on so the only reason I was hanging on to the membership was in case I needed the treadmill in the winter. Still do Pilates which is great but that is now offered closer to home so I can walk rather than drive there. It's been useful to hear everybody's experiences- I'll give it a go this winter and see what happens. Can always rejoin if it doesn't turn out to be right for me

[Dexy5 Graduate10 in reply to BellaJ]

Yes I'm lucky that I can go running during the day too. Although my days are disappearing with all this fitness activity! Another option if working, is maybe to do a short run in the lunch time if that is possible.

[Deals1 Graduate10 in reply to Dexy5]

I tried the gym and treadmill the orlther week (as got a free pass 😀) couldn't really get away with the treadmill. But I do still swim once or twice a week, and thinking of a few classes during the winter.

[misswobble Graduate10]

A head torch won’t stop you tripping up. Nothing will I fell over fresh air the other day. Broad day light ☺️

Be lit up like a Christmas tree. You need to see and be seen. Reflective flashing things can be bought from the pound shop Run gear usually has reflective stuff on it as do shoes. Gloves and hats need reflective bits on too

I don’t like running on roads with no pavements in the day time let alone at night I try and hit the trail before dark Or find pavements to run on

A treadmill could well be the answer. I cant believe I just said that 😁

[Razouski]

I’m lucky that I can run once it’s got light so can’t really give you any additional advice. But Oldfloss has pretty much said it all anyway.

Happy running, and happy shopping for some new bits of kit.

[Fauvemarin]

Advice from a New Englander -

Think like you were riding a bike - if it is dark, be sure to have a head lamp to see where you are going, and a flashing red light for your bum. Bright clothing too.

Remember too that when you head out you should be cold at first - if you are warm from the get go, you are over dressed (and you will sweat and chill).

Design your runs so you are heading into the wind to start but have a following breeze on the return.

Once it gets cold, think about using the gym to warm your muscles first, 5-10 minutes walking on a treadmill will really help your run.

But if it gets really cold (+10F down) think about running in the gym. I never enjoy that but it is best for your lungs to avoid really cold air. Also, if it gets icy, think about staying indoors (or getting cleats for your shoes).

Best of all - enjoy the temps - things are different in the cold, and they can really produce some spectacular runs.