Dark mornings

[DianeD1]

Having graduated a few weeks ago, i've been happily consolidating my runs and even ran while away on holiday (something i used to mock!!), still enjoying it but aware that i run very early in the morning, and in a small village, i'm beginning to worry about dark winter mornings! Do i grit my teeth and run down the same few streets that have lights (repetitive and boring), be really brave and continue on my normal route (which covers several unlit paths), buy a treadmill or hang up the running shoes in favour of a good keep fit video over the winter? This is the first winter as a runner, I work long hours so daylight running wont be possible, any help from others more experienced is appreciated xx

[southlundon Graduate]

I don’t have any answers I’m afraid but I’m in the same boat as you! I was discussing it with my husband and as I am lucky enough to work from home usually, I think I’m going to swap to lunchtime runs as it’ll also get me out of my home office.

However, I think I might invest in a decent headtorch for when I do want to go out when it’s dark. Apparently it’s useful to have one with a strap that goes over the top of the head to stop it from slipping while running - all my internet tabs are currently things like ‘best headtorch for running’!!

[Deals1 Graduate]

I've been thinking the same. Work too, and early mornings and evenings will be dark soon. I did buy a headtorch (although southlundon makes a good point about the strap over the top of the head, which mine doesn't, might have to try and adapt it!!)

Not too sure what I'm going to do yet, I tried the treadmill last week and don't think that it will be a solution for me . Although they work for a lot of people. Giving it another try tomorrow so we will see.....

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Running through a frosty morning, lit only by a headtorch is a rite of passage for all new runners.

I will freely admit that I now run less in the winter, because of the dark mornings, but maintained three runs per week through my first winter after graduation, just to ingrain the habit.

Do what you can comfortably do, and continue to enjoy, but don't make it into a chore.

Keep running, keep smiling.