Predawn Running

I hate mornings.  I mean I really hate mornings. Unfortunately, if I want to get a run or ride in and still get the thousand and one other tasks marked off my to-do list, I have to get out early. 

It took me years to come to this realization, but finally this spring, I bit the bullet and set the alarm for five a.m.  Over the summer, I grew used to being up and out before lights were on in most of the houses on my street.  I even began to enjoy them a bit. Roads that are normally teeming with cars are quiet. I can actually here the birds chirping.  It is peaceful. And in the summer, being out before the sun was too high in the sky made for a much cooler run.

But earlier this week I woke up and made a discovery that threw me for a loop. It was dark outside. I waited for over an hour before the sun came up and I could get safely out the door, defeating the purpose of rising so early.

Because I have gotten used to the extra hours pre-dawn running has added to my day, I can’t afford to get started an hour late. I am going to have to once again bite the bullet and head out into the dark through the fall and winter months.

But, running in the dark is going to take some planning.  There are safety issues to consider. Considering the number of pedestrians and cyclists hit by cars in the county in broad daylight, the dangers of being hit on a dark morning run are very real.

First and foremost I have to be seen.  I have to wear brightly colored or reflective clothing.  The reflective clothing available to today's runner is far beyond the reflective crossing guard vests of days gone by.  In addition, to the clothing, armbands and hats with LED lights are availble to make runners and walkers even more visible to drivers.  

Second, I need to be able to see. Even with the street lights that are on almost every road in Pasadena, it is not always possible to see far enough ahead. This morning, I barely missed a garbage can and tripped not so gracefully over a limb that was in the middle of the path. Headlamps for long distance runners are available at most outdoor stores are much more convenient than carrying a flashlight.

Once these two safety issues taken addressed, an early morning or predawn run can be pleasant.  Even better than the quiet streets and the peace that comes with feeling a little closer to nature there was something special about watching the sunrise as I made my way home this morning.  Watching the sky turn pink over the bay feels like a gift I was giving myself.