Wednesday, January 18, 2017

Even If We're Just Running In The Dark

Before I launch into this post, I'd just like to say this: fuck [gasp] you [wheeze] hill sprints [pant]

Okay! Now that's done, this post covers running in the dark. Given this time of year, if you are an early morning, after work or even late-ish evening runner, chances are you've had to run in the pitch black. I'd like to make sure all of you stay safe out there, so here are a few safety tips I've picked up over the years for running when it's dark outside. 
  • Run with a friend. If you can't run with a friend, or prefer to run alone, see below.
  • Plan to run on well-marked, well-lit trails that are inaccessible to traffic. Even better, run on trails where you're sure to encounter other people (safety in numbers).
  • Wear light-coloured or bright clothing with reflective patches or strips.
Recently, a friend bought me an LED light with two settings - blink or glow - that can easily be attached to a zipper, belt loop, etc. I've found this relatively inexpensive accessory quite handy and another easy way to make sure drivers, cyclists and other people on foot can see you... which really, is the whole point.

What other precautions do you take to make sure you're seen when it's dark outside?

A Note on Fear
In my last post, I mentioned how terrifying it can be to run distances one has either never run before or not run in a very long time. 

In his recent (and incredibly interesting) interview with Marc Maron, Bruce Springsteen had this to say about fear:
Your desperation has to be greater than your fear. Your desperation, your hunger, your desires, your ego, your ambition, has to be greater than your fear of complete humiliation. So as long as you have that equation correctly balanced, you're going out there, my friend! No matter what happens!
While he spoke of fear in the context of performing in front of huge crowds of people, his thoughts on this topic still resonated with me with respect to running. Insightful, no? Testify, Bruce.

Running Journal
Today's run: 4 km hill sprints (worst! ever! you know, in case you didn't get that impression from me earlier). Weather: a little rainy but, at 7°C, much warmer than it's been recently. Feeling: accomplished, strangely. Besides being completely and totally out of breath, of course. 

Musical Interlude
Since there seems to be a theme with this post, here's a video for you from the one, the only, The Boss. Enjoy. 

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