Like many people with busy schedules, running in the very early morning hours or after nightfall seem to be a convenient time for me to run. Mine is now grown, but I remember the days when the house was silent and I would get up to fit my morning exercise in. There was something very special about that time of day. There was nobody asking me things and I got a chance to do a lot of thinking without any interruptions. I had my cup of coffee in silence and it gave me a chance to “get my head together”. It was a very calming and peaceful time. I also had the opportunity to exercise without having to stop for little things. Likewise, the evening was the same way. I got a lot of exercising accomplished during this time.
However, there are certain things that you need to do to protect yourself if you are going out on the road at these times of the day. You definitely want to be noticed by wearing some clothing with some reflection to it. This would mean wearing light colored clothing and possibly even clothes or sneakers that are reflective or have a protective strip on them. Some people have a band that attaches around their upper arm that has a flashing light on it. This could also be helpful to you by allowing you to take notice of any upcoming “bumps” in your path, such as speed bumps, cracks in the sidewalk and/or potholes. Another good thing to do would be to carry a small flashlight.
You also need to protect yourself in other ways as well. If you can, do not run alone. Bringing a friend is a good idea. Some areas are more prone than others to be attacked by someone, but it can happen anywhere. Be careful and try to avoid high traffic areas. Make every attempt to run on the sidewalk, if possible. It is not good sense to take any unnecessary risks.
Be safe, be noticed, be alive.
Angel Lynn writes in fitness, weight loss, media, single parenting and health.