There are a lot of benefits to jogging at different times of the day. While some people prefer to run in the morning or during the day, others enjoy running at night. But is it weird to jog at night?
My brief answer is No, not necessarily. Despite popular belief, jogging at night can be just as safe and effective as any other time of day. While there are some precautions you should take, such as wearing reflective clothing and carrying a flashlight, there are lots of advantages to running at night
Continue reading as I share with you the following;
- Reasons jogging at night is not weird,
- Reasons people might think it’s weird,
- The benefits of running at night, and finally,
- Tips for safely jogging at night.
Reasons Jogging At Night Is Not Weird
There are a lot of things that do not make jogging at night weird. Here are a few reasons why:
1. Jogging At Night Can Be More Peaceful
The stillness and quiet of the night can be more conducive to a tranquil run. The streets are quieter and less crowded, allowing you to focus on your run without distractions.
Places like trails and parks can also be quieter at night, allowing you to focus on your form and enjoy the peacefulness of the evening.
Most big cities also have designated running paths and trails lit up at night, offering the same safety as an outdoor track.
2. It Can Fit Better With Your Busy Schedule
It is not always easy to find time during the day for a run. If you are busy with work or school during the day, jogging at night can be a great way to fit in an exercise routine.
I found running at night easier to fit into my schedule than during the day. Plus, it felt great after a long day of studying and classes to get outside for some exercise.
This is why it’s become very common for people to go jogging at night. It’s a great way to fit in some exercise and unwind without sacrificing too much of your valuable time.
3. You Can Enjoy The Cooler Temperature
Running in cooler temperatures can be more comfortable and enjoyable than running during the heat of the day.
If you live in an area with hot summers, jogging at night can be a great way to get some exercise without feeling too hot and sweaty.
Plus, the cooler temperature will help you avoid dehydration or heat-related illnesses that can come with running during the day.
4. It Can Help With Sleep
Jogging at night can help your body relax and prepare for sleep later in the evening. Studies have shown that regular exercise, including running, can help improve sleep quality.
Jogging at night can also be a great way to wind down after a busy day and clear your mind before bed. This is especially beneficial for people struggling with insomnia or falling asleep.
5. Enjoy NightLife
In fact, many cities like New York and London have a vibrant nightlife that is also active with joggers and runners. You get to enjoy some of the main nightlife activities like music, and lighting, to mention a few.
Beautiful night stars and moon can also be seen while jogging at night. It’s a great way to clear your head and experience the beauty of nature in the evening.
This makes running at night quite fun because you see another side of your city or town that you wouldn’t usually see during the day.
Additionally, plenty of running clubs organize late-night runs in different cities around the world. So chances are, you will not be alone when you start running at night.
The Benefits of Running At Night
Now that we know the benefits and reasons why jogging at night isn’t weird, let’s take a look at some of the main benefits of running at night.
- Improved Mental Health:
Running at night can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and help with focus.
Studies have found that running at night can help reduce the symptoms of depression, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall mental health.
- Better Breathing:
The cooler temperatures at night provide better air quality for running. This means you will be able to breathe more easily while running in the cooler evening air. The improved breathing can also help your performance as you run.
- Better Sleep:
As mentioned previously, running at night can help prepare your body for sleep. Studies have found that people who exercise regularly tend to fall asleep faster and experience deeper sleep than those who do not exercise regularly.
Reasons People May Think It’s Weird
Despite the many benefits of running at night, some people may still think it is weird. Here are a few reasons why:
1. It Can Be Scary
The dark can be intimidating and scary for some people. Running in an unfamiliar area or alone can make someone feel uneasy. Additionally, strange noises or shadows in the darkness could make you feel uneasy.
2. You Could Face Safety Risks
The safety risks of running at night will depend on where you live, but it always pays to be cautious.
It is important to stay in well-lit or populated areas and not to run alone if possible. You should also avoid wearing headphones or being distracted as you jog so that you can stay aware of your surroundings.
3. It May Disrupt Your Sleep Schedule
Running at night can make it harder for some people to fall asleep, especially if you are running late in the evening.
However, studies have shown that running at any time of day can help improve your sleep quality and regulate your sleep schedule over time.
Final Thoughts And Conclusion
Running at night is not weird. In fact, it can be quite beneficial for your physical and mental health. It can help you stay cool in the summer months, improve your breathing, reduce stress, and even help you sleep better.
However, it is important always to practice safety when running in unfamiliar areas or at night. Be sure to stay in well-lit and populated areas, avoid wearing headphones or being distracted, and always let someone know where you are going.
In conclusion, running at night can be a great way to exercise before bed and reap its additional benefits. So go ahead and take advantage of the cooler temperatures and beautiful night sky.
Happy jogging!
