Tips to Staying Safe
Rene Unser
P.A.C.E. Sports Fitness
Trail running at night ramps up your adrenaline and will bring a new experience to even the most veteran trail runners. It heightens your senses and no doubt, you will notice things at night that you most certainly wouldn't notice during your day time runs... your breath, the wind, shadows etc... This often equates to making the run more exciting and can turn your old standby trail into a totally new adventure! Really though, running at night isn't that dangerous, as long as you follow a few safety tips:
Choose a Nearby and Familiar Trail
Choose a trail that is nearby, convenient and familiar. Remember that trail running is more challenging that road running. Running a trail that is familiar is important, as things appear different at night and it is easier to get disorientated.
Don't Run Alone
We have all heard this before: “There is safety in numbers”... welcome to the P.A.C.E. scene! Let us lead you on a bunch of fun adventures this winter!
Be Aware
Your perception will be off, so you may need to slow your pace and pick up your feet. Keeping your body relaxed will also help absorb any bumps and changes in terrain you don't anticipate or see. Especially when it comes to descending. Shorten your stride and keep your feet underneath you.
Navigate
Keeping your bearings at night can be one of the biggest challenges. As mentioned, run familiar areas/trails to start with and ensure that you're looking around and land-marking familiar areas so you can make your way back. Or carry a compass if you feel more comfortable. Be sure to tell someone where you’re going and how long you expect to be out for.
Gear
If you haven’t already made the switch over to trail shoes, now is the time! They offer more stability traction than a road shoe. A headlamp is mandatory to keep your hands free and allow a normal arm swing. In the winter months, always carry an extra layer and food for any otential
unseen setbacks.
unseen setbacks.
