The day after my epic coming of the rails run, I had a 14 miler to do. I planned this one a little better as I knew that the whole point of this run was to run on tired legs. My legs were tired. It was still hotter than Hell, but I was determined to make it a good run.
First I decided that I would go later in the evening. It is hard knowing that you are going to start a long run that won’t finish till the 10:00 PM news comes on, but still better than running in the heat of day. Second, I plotted out a route that would allow me to meet some of my fellow MRTT Mama’s for miles 3 through 8. They were supposed to be running a slower pace and I thought it would be good to have company for some of the run. It was just what I needed even if they had me going a minute or so faster for those miles than my legs wanted to go, but still worth it. As Janna pointed out, I did miss my tempo run the day before:) I even had Helen run with me for an extra mile once the group was done. She thankfully slowed down and it was nice to run with her as I don’t often get a chance.
Then it was time to do the last 4 1/2 miles by myself. At first it was hard, but then I realized that it was only because I forgot to put my music back on. For the record and safety, when running on roadways I do NOT use headphones at all. I play my music right from my phone. I also stopped at the local 7-elleven to refill my water bottles with cold water as I really hate warm water. The man at the counter looked at me and all my lights a little odd as did some of the people in the parking lot. Not sure if it was how sweaty I was because I was a hot, hot mess or the lights. Either way I went on my way.
shortly after this stop, I had a group of teen boys (God, please don’t let my boys be this obnoxious) yell at me that I should wear reflective gear while running, but in a sarcastic tone while laughing at me. I just yelled back, “you think?” Then under my breath said a few things I will not mention on my blog. This did get me thinking. What do people think the point of all m reflective gear is? I have been doing most of my runs ALONE at night with some of the streets not having good lighting. I want to see where I am going and I think more importantly, I want to be seen! Truth be told, I worry about drivers when I’m running during the day. I worry more about drivers when I’m running at night because most are not expecting people to be out when it’s dark. I’ve said before, my goal for every run is to make it home safely and if looking like a Christmas tree helps you see me at night, I’ve got no problem with that because you know I love Christmas trees!
So what do I wear…..
- Headlamp
- Reflective Vest (mine is pink)
- Nathan Runner’s flashlight
- Armband reflective lights – I wear mine on my running belt
- Nathan Strobe lights – one of front of the vest and one on back
- Another Strobe light on my belt
- Reflective running gear
- Pepper Spray – not reflective gear but I think important safety gear
Most of these items were either purchased at my local running store or Amazon. To the average person, I may seem a little crazy with my lights maybe even bordering on OCD. That’s ok as long as you see me coming:)
What do you use for night running?
The Accidentally Running Mama 
When I’m out running at night, it’s normally winter as well. So i have a fluo wooly hat, fluo yellow gloves, then reflective bands on each arm and round each ankle too. When it’s dark, I only run on pavements mostly under street light so I don’t need torches. I don’t trust drivers round here to go out in country roads at night!
I’m impressed with your range, I like the vest and have in my wish list now!
I’ll have to look into the hat and gloves come winter. NEVER trust drivers:)