I joined the Fleet Feet Running Group and today went to the store for my first group/fun run. At first I did not wan to go because I was tired and just did not feel like running outside. Well, I made myself get ready and out the door.
I got to the store around 6:10 or so (the run started at 6:30) so I had time to browse through the store and buy more SmartWool socks. I just LOVE those!!! Anyway, 6:30 came and it was time to start running. Well, my Garmin was not working properly because I turned it on inside the store so it could not connect to a satellite. I did not realize this until I got outside and by then it was too late. Since I was new to these runs I was not clear about the running route. I met a girl that I told myself I was just going to follow. However, by 6:30 it was dark and she was running faster than me so I lost her. I ran till I think I was the last one from the group on the path and then I turned around to get back to the store. Did I mention that it was dark? Oh man! I could not see where I was going. At one point I knew I was lost and had to stop to look around and figure out where I was. There was some light from the street lights but not enough for me to know exactly where I was going. The fact that it was dark did push me to fun faster in order to get back to the store sooner. Whew! I finally got back and bought more stuff for me.
So this run was a new experience for me. Running in the dark is not fun. I did not feel safe. There was a girl in front of me running with her headphones. I don’t know if I can do that. I mean, I do run with headphones outside but there is plenty of light for me to see my surroundings. I guess running alone at night and in an unfamiliar area made me uncomfortable. I don’t know if I will go back next week. I think I might be better off running in the treadmill or running earlier (while there is still light) by the airport.
What has been your experience(s) running at night?