by A two-time Olympian has shared his best tips for running safely in winter.
Steve Brace, who represented Great Britain in the men’s marathon at the 1992 and 1996 Summer Olympics and race director of Run 4 Wales, stressed the importance of being prepared when running in the dark.
He said: “When running at night, always choose a well-lit path and avoid isolated areas.
“If you are running on a road, make sure you are facing oncoming traffic.
“Always tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to return.”
The former winner of the Paris and Berlin marathons also stressed the need to dress appropriately for cold, dark winter nights.
He suggested wearing layers, thick socks, gloves and a buff to protect the extremities, as well as reflective clothing to ensure visibility to other road users.
A headlamp is also recommended.
Brace warned against using headphones when running in the dark, to ensure awareness of the surroundings.
He also advised carrying a cell phone and a small amount of cash in case of emergency.
Running with others, whether with a club or a friend, is recommended both for safety and motivation.
In addition to safety tips, Mr Brace advised warming up properly before running in cold weather to avoid injury.
He suggested activities to get the blood flowing, like running the stairs or actively stretching.
Mr Brace also encouraged runners to sign up for events to stay motivated during the winter months.
For more information about Run 4 Wales events, visit the Run 4 Wales website.
