Benefits of running at night (and safety tips) – GOOD FORM

Some runners prefer night runs — others only have time to train after hours. Whatever the reason, if you are part of this group, know that there are benefits to running at night! Look:

BENEFITS OF RUNNING AT NIGHT

1

STIMULATES HEALTHY CHOICES DURING THE DAY

Running at night can help you eat healthier throughout the day. That’s because knowing that you’ll need to be feeling light for training, you’ll tend to opt for easy-to-digest foods, as well as avoiding fried foods and very heavy things.

In addition, you may be less tempted to have a pre-dinner drink or beer, thus prioritizing healthy and hydrating drinks such as coconut water, herbal teas or fresh juice.

two

YOU WILL NOT BE WITH AN EMPTY TANK

Some people are unable to eat right after waking up, as they find it difficult to run on a full stomach. However, this can degrade performance.

When training at night, you have plenty of time to eat beforehand, so you can program yourself to run satisfied but not “heavy”.

3

MORE TIME

Those who bet on running in the morning usually have tighter schedules, as they have to work afterwards. After working hours, the story is different: you guarantee more flexible workouts and manage to extend one of them if you feel that you are in the “pike”.

4

HEALTHIER SLEEP

Those who exercise at night can have a deeper and quality sleep. The habit is also great for people who are usually very tired after a workout, as it allows you to rest.

A 2019 study, for example, found that physical activity at night improves the quality of your nights.

However, taking action too late (approximately an hour before going to bed) has the opposite effect, and can disrupt some sleep patterns.

A hint? Take a warm and relaxing bath as soon as you get home, eat something light (with chamomile or passion fruit tea) and meditate. This is the perfect combination for a restorative evening.

5

RELIEVE THE STRESS OF THE DAY

End your day with a clear mind! Running gives you a chance to release any tension, frustration or stress from the day.

You can also use this time to create a plan for the day ahead. That way, when your head hits the pillow, your mind can feel clearer and more at peace, making it less likely to wander with worries.

Running lowers blood pressure, relieves muscle tension, and promotes a sense of calm. The release of endorphins improves mood and alleviates depression.

6

YOUR BODY WILL ALREADY BE WARM UP

If your muscles and joints tend to be more stiff, inflexible and tense when you first wake up, then night runs may be more ideal.

That’s because your body may not be ready for intense exercise right away, especially if you have a medical condition that causes joint stiffness.

Often, at the end of the day, your body is warmed up. You may find that you have better muscle control and coordination at night as well. Plus, you’ll have more time to warm up before running.

CARE

There are also some downsides to running at night, particularly in terms of safety. It is therefore important to take some precautions:

1

BECOME VISIBLE

When the sun goes down, it’s harder to see potholes and detours in the path. Be hyper-aware of your chosen terrain.

Invest in a headlamp, choose pieces that reflect, or attach visibility bands to your arms and legs. Drivers need to see you.

two

LISTEN WELL

Running listening to music is a real passion for some. However, it is better to leave the habit aside at night.

You need to be aware of your surroundings, and headphones decrease your ability to hear approaching animals, vehicles and other people.

3

CHOOSE A BUSY ROUTE

Run in well-lit areas with lots of activity. Trust your intuition: if it tells you not to go down certain streets, even if it means changing the course you have in mind, do it.

Finally, change your running route frequently so it’s not predictable.

4

NOTIFY FRIENDS AND FAMILY

If possible, find a partner or an evening jogging group, even if it’s a canine friend. Let at least one person know where and when you will train each day.

Carry your cell phone so you can call someone if you get stuck in the rain or run into a worrying situation.

5

PAY ATTENTION TO TRAFFIC

Race against traffic to see vehicles coming towards you. Look both ways before crossing the street, even if you have the right of way. Follow all traffic rules!