Discover the advantages of night runninglike enhanced sleep and quieter streetsplus tips to stay safe after dark.

Im an Exercise PhysiologistHeres Why You Shouldnt Worry About Cortisol Spikes When You Do HIIT Workouts.

Elliptical vs Treadmill: Which Cardio Machine Is Right For You?

alt

Does Rowing Count as Strength Training?

Heres What Experts Had to Say

Our editors independently select these products.

The daylight was officially gone.

woman sweating in the gym

running coach and founder of Running With Life

Most long-distance races take place in the morning, but this half marathon starts right around sunset.

The perks of running at night

What are the main benefits of night running?

Here are a few of the top reasons to get in a nocturnal workout.

Woman walking on a treadmill at the gym.

It might feel easier

The dark can be a secret weapon for runners.

Night running can help you sleep

How can running at night affect your sleep quality?

Instead, it could actually help you spend slightly longer in those restorative deep sleep stages.

Full body female athlete in sportswear using rowing machine during fitness workout in gym.

Anecdotally, some people say they also seem to fall asleep faster.

Thats something to experiment with, according to certified running coachAmie Dworecki, CPT.

Everybodys different, so you might need to find out what works best for your own circadian rhythm.

Happy woman dancing and listening to music near a green empty wall outdoor in the city.

running coach and founder of Running With Life

At night, though, you should be fairly well-fueled from noshing all day, Dworecki says.

At night, most of those hurdles typically fade away.

Its really almost a meditative experience because of the quiet and solitude, Dworecki says.

Healthy female training in the gym, performing a hip thrust.

It can really add relaxation to your running.

Does Dancing Count as Cardio?

Heres What Experts Say

Glute Bridge vs Hip Thrust: Which Is The Better Booty Booster?

A young black woman doing post-run stretches in the park on the road amidst green grass and trees.

Im a Master TrainerHeres Why You Shouldnt Skip Your Post-Run Stretches.

Its really almost a meditative experience because of the quiet and solitude.

It can really add relaxation to your running.

Amie Dworecki, CPT.

Running at night vs. morning: How to choose

Many runners swear by their morning miles.

But obviously, the a.m. hours arent the only time to run.

How do you know whether night or morning runs will serve you best?

For some people, its purely logistical: The best time to get in a run is whenever youcanrun.

Its kind of an adrenaline rush running at night sometimes, Kunz says.

There are even have lights you’ve got the option to put on yourshoesor yourgloves, Dworecki says.

Consider leaving your headphones at home

Night running probably isnt the right time to zone out to a podcast.

Because you wont be able to see as well, it helps to keep your other senses sharp.

Watch your use of headphones just to be aware of whats around you, Dworecki says.

Let someone know where youre going or share your run so they can track you, Kunz says.

Apps likeStravalet you proactively send your location to select contacts in real time.

Dworecki adds that for some people, its easier to run right from their workplace.

[It] makes your run more fun and it gives you some accountability, Kunz says.

Even running with a dog can help a night run feel less lonely.

FAQ

1.

Do I need a light to run at night?

The most popular option among runners is aheadlamp.

Can running at night help in managing stress?

Is it bad to run at 10 p.m.?

Sometimes the only chance you have to fit in a workout is after many people go to bed.

Impact of environmental parameters on marathon running performance.

2012;7(5):e37407.

Epub 2012 May 23.

PMID: 22649525; PMCID: PMC3359364.

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.