Lack of Daylight and Cold Weather

With the end of the year quickly approaching, that usually means less daylight hours and colder weather. Though these two things might keep most people indoors and not want to exercise, it doesn't have to be that way if you prepare for it.

Let's take a look at the lack of daylight issue. Throughout the year, there are people who run when the sun isn't up. They're able to do this because they prepare for it. This might mean looking for a new running route. I recommend finding a route that has streetlights or neighborhood that has house lights on to help light up your path. Another alternative is to get a headlamp to run with. This will help light things up in front of you. Something to keep in mind with running when it's dark out - you have to watch where you are running AND make sure other people can see you. Having all black clothes on with no reflective material isn't the best option.

Onward to the cold weather issue. This one can be a bit more tricky to handle. There are some diehard runners who will run outside in any temperature. There are also some who draw the line when the temperature hits freezing. How cold it is outside shouldn't steer you away from hitting the road. All you need to do is dress appropriately. This is the same thing when running outside in the middle of summer. With running when it's cold outside, you need to dress in layers. I recommend staying away from cotton, at least as your base layer. I'd go with a compression shirt as your base layer. These are relatively cheap and easy to find at most stores (~$20). For your outer layer, I'd go with a wind breaker to help prevent the wind from hitting your core. The in-between layers, that can be anything you feel is necessary to help keep you warm. Depending on how cold it is outside, don't forget to wear a hat and gloves too. If you get too hot, you can always take these off during your run.

There is a lot more that can be said about running in the dark and cold weather. Hopefully this will at least help show you that it is still possible to get out on the road and get some miles in.