Running In The Dark

Hi y’all;

As we’ve all noticed, the leaves are starting to change color and fall. This means a lot of things are changing – the seasons, the weather and how dark it is during your morning or evening run.

Here are some tricks and tips to keep in mind, as more runners are out and about in Fort Collins during these shorter days.

Lights – It’s important to see where you’re going and be seen by cars, bikes and other pedestrians.

-Headlamps or a handheld flashlight allow you to see the trails and road ahead of you so you don’t trip or slip on ice.

-Consider acquiring clip on LED lights to attach to your shirt, hat, or shoes. These provide a high level of visibility with minimum weight or interference with your body. Something that blinks and catches others attention are best in keeping you safe.

Reflectivity -will give you the most visibility to oncoming cars. The sooner they see you the better.

– Reflective vests & arm/leg bands are great for 360-degrees of visibility. Also consider reflective tape, which can be put on shoes, leggings, shirts – you name it.

– If you’re short on cash, get creative and try using duct tape on your clothing – while not as reflective as tape that is designed for visibility, the silvery shine is better than nothing, especially when it’s truly dark out.

Keep in Mind

– Drivers are all too often distracted and it’s best to assume they can’t see you. Do your part to be extra cautious when crossing intersections. Stop, look both ways and proceed when clear.

– Run with others! Ask a friend to join you and together you’ll be safer and enjoy more peace of mind. That dark sky can be scary and dangerous alone.

– Turn off your music and pay attention. When it’s dark and your vision is impaired it’s important to use your sense of sound to be aware of your surroundings and alert.

We hope these tips and tricks will help you with any fear or anxiety you might have about running when it’s dark. You might find that running at night is actually really fun. It breaks up the routine and can give you a different perspective. Run safe out there!

– Fort Collins Running Club

visibility

2 thoughts on “Running In The Dark

  1. A simple light and running up and down the power line trail – works out great. Hardly anyone ever there and never have to worry about cars except when crossing streets – but there are signaled crosswalks.

    1. Thanks Patrick! We’re lucky in Fort Collins to have so many trail options without city traffic. I also might recommend running with a buddy. If you both wear lights it’s even easier to see you and safer too! Keep up the good work 🙂

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