Tips for Running at Night
April 28, 2022 / ASICS Australia
Oftentimes, finding time for a run is challenging.
Many people wake up hours before work to fit in a run and feel fatigued afterward. If this sounds familiar, running at night may work for you. Here are some tips to help you run comfortably at night.
“I like to run at night because I have a sense of freedom that I don't have during the day," said Vanessa Baltzer, an ASICS FrontRunner member. "I am alone and I like to enjoy this moment.”
Is it ok to run before bed?
Some runners believe exercising before bed helps them sleep through the night because the exercise relieves stress and anxiety that may keep you awake.
“Running at night gives me the opportunity to unplug from stress at work and my daily worries, helping me to focus on my feelings, my breath and my body. Thus, it helps me sleep better, earlier and more relaxed.” says ASICS FrontRunner member, Juan Martin .
Other runners say it leaves them restless or too tired the next day to run. “I prefer to run in the morning, but when I don't have time and I need to leave training for the night, I finish training in the golden hour, it gives me peace, nature is amazing, it gives me peace to my mind.” says ASICS FrontRunner member, Priscila Gonçalves .
Testing out different running times can narrow down what works best for you and your schedule.
The benefits of running in the evening
Running in the evening has its upsides, especially for those who can't find time during the day to run or lack energy in the morning.
- Allows your body time to warm up. If you’ve been in motion all day long leading up to your nightly workout, your body already had a chance to warm-up and should be ready to run with minimal warm up time.
- May improve your quality of sleep. Running at night can support a relaxed mind by burning off excess energy. Working out can also help you create a normal sleep pattern.
- Helps with de-stressing after a long day. Exercise is known to relieve stress. Running releases endorphins that can help boost your mood and clear your anxiety . A lot of runners use the sport to decompress.
Note: These are generally accepted effects, but the effects may vary from person to person.
8 tips for running at night
Running before bed can be a difficult adjustment. Many runners enjoy it because it feels relaxing or fits into their schedule. Here are some tips to get you started running at night.
1. Decide on a time for your evening run
Consider timing. Make sure that you time your evening run according to your schedule and sunset. If you’re not comfortable with running in low-light, start before sunset.
What time should you run at night?
The best time to run at night may be before sunset to avoid darkness. Consider seasonal time changes.
2. Plan your route in advance
Pre-plan your route to maintain safety efforts. Letting someone know your run location, especially before going out alone, is an important safety measure to consider.
3. Run in a familiar, well-lit location
Running in a familiar, well-lit location can be an effective way to remain safe when running at night. Consider avoiding low populated areas and trail runs at night. Stick to high-visibility areas.
4. Wear highly-visible, reflective clothing
Wearing something reflective or bright at night will help you remain visible while running. It’s important to always be seen by other pedestrians and drivers.
Recommended ASICS gear for running at night
Visibility is important while running at night. The ASICS LITE-SHOW™ collection are designed with reflective panels to improve your visibility in low-light conditions. Wearing reflective or neon clothing will ultimately help you be seen by others when running at night.
5. Invest in a pair of nighttime running shoes
ASICS recommends wearing running gear that is available even at nighttime. From clothes to running shoes, it's important to be seen and visible.
Recommended ASICS shoes for running at night
Running shoes can provide some visibility while running. Having reflective parts on your running shoes adds more visibility when you run at night.
This running shoe has many reflective details to help increase your visibility in a low-light setting.
This model of shoe has reflective details to help improve visibility in low-light settings.
This shoe has reflective accents in its design, which helps runners to stay more visible in low-light conditions.
6. Utilise your phone’s safety features
Emergency preparedness is important. Emergencies can happen any time, which is why using all of your phone’s safety features can be crucial.
Use your phone's flashlight and share your location with a family member or friend. You can also text someone that you’re going on a run and follow up when you’ve returned home safely.
7. Prepare a running at night safety kit
While preparing for a night time run, you may want to think about bringing and wearing objects that are going to protect you.
What to bring with you while running at night
Equip yourself with the following running safety gear:
- Headlamp
- Reflective tape
- Flashlight
8. Run with a partner
The buddy system can ensure safety in numbers at night. Find a running group or partner with the ASICS RunKeeper™ app . This app will help you connect with running groups in your area.
Running before bed may be the best way to fit exercise into your schedule. Just be sure to stay aware of your surroundings and consider safety measures such as wearing bright lights or safety lights along with your reflective clothing.
Please Note: This information does not contain or constitute medical advice or a medical opinion, and it is provided for informational purposes only. You should always consult a qualified and licensed medical professional prior to beginning or modifying any diet or exercise program.