First up, I think you can judge from the picture that we had an incredible ‘celebrate the end of the cross country season and how awesome they did’ party. I am just preparing their bodies for Halloween with the foods below.
My students didn’t even realize the chuncks of dry cake mix on top of the cake when they bit into it because of the large ammounts of frosting that I coated that sucker with. Frosting really does solve any problem. If you can prove me wrong, please share in the comments.
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As I was happily jogging along on my treadmill this morning while watching last weeks episode of the Biggest Loser I was trying to figure out why I was so happy even though I was trapped in my back room with little air cirulation rather than running outside on the streets when the weather is still warm enough to do so.
I realized (among other things like having a bathroom two steps away, watching tv while running and being able to wear the most ridiculous outfit without being made fun of) that I love running on the treadmill in the morning because I feel safe.
If I ran outside that early, I would be freaking myself out the entire time. I would be looking behind me every 6 steps making sure there wasn’t somebody behind me waiting to kidnap me.
At home I just have to worry about Billy coming up behind me and scaring me…..
(recycled photo but I love it too much not to post it again.)
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Check me out over on Monica’s Blog while she is away living up her vacation!
Don’t forget to enter my RUNNING SHOES GIVEAWAY!
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I wanted to know what you guys think about running alone? Do you do it often? Do you only do it during the day or on busy roads? Have you ever thought about it?
-I do run by myself during the day and on busy roads but I was thinking about how I went up the canyon all by myself the other day and realized that wasn’t my smartest idea and will NEVER be doing that again. Sissy and/or Billy will ALWAYS be by my side if I run up the canyon. I have never run by myself at night (before it gets dark) and I don’t think I ever will…my crazy imagination would not allow it.
Would you rather have Doritos Nacho Cheese or the Cool Ranch kind? Is there another type of chip that you love more?
-Cool Ranch for me…those things are addicting! Salt and Vinegar will always be #1 in my heart.
115 comments
Gen
I pretty much usually run alone….I’ve enjoyed it whenever I’ve run with a friend though.
Hannah
I can’t do it…run alone when it is dark, that is. I am paranoid. I’ve done it maybe two or three times, and it just freaks me out. That said, the few times I’ve done it, I was so freaked out that I was busting out some speedy splits! However, I figure if I need to run in the dark, I should do it with people or on a treadmill. It is just what I’m comfortable with. I have many friends who don’t think twice about running solo in the dark, though. I’m terrified for them!
I have the same issue as you, I believe. Crazy imagination. On one hand, it sucks. On the other hand, a hefty dose of fear isn’t a terrible thing to possess.
Sarah
I run alone at times. I did a 16mile run last winter and started when it was still dark. It was also a big snow storm so my loving mother who is protective of her 29year old daughter drove behind me the whole time!! The plows hadn’t even been out yet so she had some tricky spots to drive through. Good thing though because I was trying to get 18 but crawled in her car at 16.
stephanie
i usually run alone but i stick to places that i know are safe..common running paths or my neighborhood. i thought about running outside before sunrise the other day, but then i kept thinking of homeless people and killers and went back to bed :)
Pam
I always run alone. The one and only time I have ever run with someone (aside from races, of course) was last year when my friend that was going to run RnR Vegas with me was in town. She lives in VA now but came home for her husband’s granddad’s funeral, and while they were here we ran our 14-mile training run together. Other than that, I have always flown solo, usually on country back roads with little traffic. I know… I’m every kidnapper’s dream come true.
Brittany *Sparkles*
Ran at night the other night and was fine until I was suddenly not by any busy streets – got completely freaked out and sprinted until the nearest busy intersection where I felt safe again! I always run with a tiny pink pepper spray, phone, and now a blinking runners light the BF got me lol
For some reason mornings scare me more than night bc I feel like at night more ppl are still on the road… ya know, to witness if anything bad was to happen.. or to rescue me!
Jessica
Ooo, I need a pink pepper spray :)
Janae
ME TOO!
MegSmith @ Cooking.In.College
Gah I cannot run alone outside unless it is seriously on like a highway in the middle of the day. I get VERY nervous too.
Brittany
In the early am in the dark. Definitely makes me run faster. Funniest story is that my bun was grabbed from behind when I was running and I thought I was being attacked or taken and screamed. Finally the “attacker” let go… And it was a hawk. I am more concerned with slipping on ice or having an larger animal get me. Something that is harder to fend off.
Cool Ranchhh, but not much of a plain chip eater. Needs a little something extra like Nachos.
Emma (Sweet Tooth Runner)
I used to ALWAYS run alone, and always in the dark! I got used to it, but I still peed my pants every time I saw a shadow move or heard a rustle! :P
Elle
YES! I run alone but only in town or city streets.. no wooded trails and none in the dark EVER. That IS what treadmills are for.
You are right.. icing hides all errors!
Mallory
I run alone most of the time and it’s not that bad. I do get nervous to run alone in the dark though. No thanks!!
Jessica
I always always run alone, and I run up that canyon all the time alone. I always see lots of other people on the trail though, so I’m never that worried. It’s better than when I used to run on the lower part of that trail where there’s been multiple incidents…I’m sure you know what and where I’m talking about. But I never run when it’s dark…so that’s good, right? I sometimes try to guilt-trip my Hubby into coming run with me, but it’s never worked, Haha. I love cool ranch doritos!
Janae
I totally know what you are talking about…that area scares me so bad. Keep guilt-tripping and eventually it might work ha!
Sarah
I mostly run alone… and sometimes in the dark. Although my husband doesn’t like it & I at least stay in the neighborhood when it’s dark, even though that can be super boring, I can get a 4 miler in without really leaving our neighborhood & not doing too much overlap. I just zig zag around. Usually by the time I’ve done 4 it’s usually either time to get ready for work or light enough to go out of the neighborhood for the rest of the run.
Christina @ The Athletarian
Um have you tried Doritos Bold BBQ?! Those one take the cake, for sure. Cool ranch takes second! I do really love any and all chips though!
I run alone, but never in the dark. My area is fairly busy so it would be hard to get kidnapped without someone noticing…I think.
Lori Kay
I NEVER run alone in the evening or early morning. 4:00pm is my cut off. Not safe. No way no how.
Cool Ranch :) But I never get them because I would eat the whole bag in one night and then become instantly addicted.
Haute Running Mama
I never run alone early morning or at night. There have been too many horrible things that have happened to runners in my town so it’s completely off limits. All of my week morning runs are done on a TM- weekend long runs are with running friends and if alone on busy streets with many other runners.
I am weird and am not a big flavored chips fan! I do like salt/vinegar pop chips- those are goooood. Other than that I like tortilla chips w/guac. I could eat those all day!
Cat @ Breakfast to Bed
My hubs is a cop. I never get to run too early or too late alone. Safety. It’s a thing.
Nicole
I always run alone. NEVER on busy streets because I am likely to trip and fall right into oncoming traffic. I go out on trails or greenways there are always other people around (not creepy people, other running people).
COOL RANCH. No question.
The Kidless Kronicles
Amanda
I run alone sometimes, but it’s not early in the morning or late at night.
A lot of times, however, I prefer to run with someone! :)
Jerilee E.
I run in the dark all the time, in the early morning. Sometimes with other people, sometimes not. It’s always in our neighborhood which I feel is pretty safe. My completely solid (in my brain) logic is that psychos don’t stay up until 4 or 5am or get up that early ;). You never hear of people being kidnapped or attacked in the early morning hours. See? Logic ;). Plus, I’m not little and cute like the rest of y’all, so I’m not too worried!
I don’t have a treadmill – plus I have 5 little kids, so early morning or late at night is often my only option. So I choose early.
Rosa - Fitness, Food, Fulfilled
I always run alone and because I like to do it in the morning before going to work, it happens in the dark. I usually wear a headlamp (which is very attractive by the way), always run on busier streets, and never wear headphones. I too feared the boogie man when I started, but now I always try to be conscious of my surroundings to be as safe as I can. Plus, running at night makes you feel like you’re running faster. I like that!
Elizabeth @ reads recipes runs
I like running alone through my neighborhood, and I always feel safe, but now that the mornings are so dark, I’ve been putting off my runs until I get home from work. I’m more nervous of getting hit by a car in the dark than being snuck up on. I really should get a road ID or something if I fall. Funny story, once I called my husband from my run about an errand I needed him to run and his first response was “Are you OK, did you fall?” he knows me far too well…
If I had to choose Dorritos, the cool ranch kind. But I 100% agree that salt and vinegar are the best!! Especially the kettle chip kind. So. Good.
michele
check out my run from saturday (on my blog). It’s a very creepy route, but I love it. I’m scared that someone will steal me, too.
Amy N.
I don’t mind running alone. If it’s dark I stay on busy roads and give my husband a “if I’m not back home by then” time so he can drive my route backwards if I’m not home by then. I’m pretty confidant that after a few miles of running I don’t look attractive enough to take.
Frosting does solve a lot of problems. That’s why I eat it every chance I get.
Lauren
I actually agree with you 100% about running outside. I ran back this trail by my house over the summer (pre-injury) and the whole entire time I was freaked out. There was not one moment when I enjoyed my run because I was constantly looking around and scared out of my mind. It’s SUCH an isolated trail and although people do bike along it and stuff, it only takes five seconds for someone to snatch you. I was so un-easy that I didn’t even realize how gorgeous the trail was until like the fourth or fifth time I ran it. And even then I wasn’t fully focused.
And I haven’t eaten a potato chip since the 8th grade :-) (But I liked the cheesy better)
And that photo is priceless!
Michelle
I always run alone and when it’s dark I always get nervous! I actually did my last outdoor, weeknight run yesterday and these two little dudes (maybe 10?) started chasing me because they thought I was their teacher. After they realized I wasnt their teacher one of them told me to make sure I tOok out my headphones because there is a guy attaking girls lately and I need to be safe. Isn’t that cute? (the little dudes warning, not the attacks!) so I promised then no headphones and ran home sans music. But it really was a heads up to remember that it’s dark and cold now! :(
(sorry this was so long!)
Shannon
I am new to running and have only ran on a treadmill so far but it is finally getting cooler in Florida so I will give running outside a try!
I am a cool ranch girl but give me cape cod reduced fat cheddar and sour cream please. YUM. :)
karen @ La Chanson de Ma Vie
I run alone sometimes. If I run in a place that makes me afraid of something, I leave music at home and carry pepper spray. If I run in the dark, I wear a headlamp to be visible.
I bet you could outrun anybody that tried to get you. And running in the early AM (like 5-6am) is when all the serial killers and rapists are sleeping. There are way more creepy people out at in the dark at night (8-12 midnight) than there are in the morning hours. As long as you don’t run the same route at the same time every day, I doubt you’d have any problem.
But maybe Billy just needs to get you a dog? :) A pretty husky to keep up with you and to eat anybody that tries to mess with his mama.
Brittany
I always run alone because it is so peaceful. It’s nice to distance myself from the world and anything stressful. I try not to run when it’s dark out but sometimes its inevitable. I have some rules for running in the dark:
1) Run in lit areas
2) Stay on well traveled roads- not back streets
3) Pepper Spray!
Rene Hall
I don’t like running alone even though when I run outside I run in the ‘burbs and feel pretty safe. I just like having water all the time and I hate carrying. So I’m a little bit of a treadmill tramp.
I don’t really like Doritos. Weird, right?
Karla
Haha I love that picture! Unfortunately I don’t have a training partner located close to me so about 98% of my runs are alone during the school year.
I try really hard not to run by myself when it will be getting dark. The sun goes does so early now though that I was caught in the dark by myself tonight and I did the non-stop look over the shoulder to make sure creeper is trailing me.
I definitely will be getting out the door earlier these days =)
Megan
I always run alone. I live in AZ so I can run outside all year. Right now I start before sunrise, but the great thing about AZ is I’m not the only runner out there! There are quite a few ‘regulars’ on my routes! :) Doritos: Cool Ranch. For sure.
Brooke @ sweats & sweets
I actually run in the mornings, right when the sun is coming up. I do run alone, but my community is really safe. There are a TON of runners out at any given time so no one is going to bother you. I wish I could run at night, but my body doesn’t agree with it which is weird, but in the mornings its over and done with.
Molly
I’m a psycho and LOVE running myself in the dark. Early morning+late at night are my favorite times to run outside- I only stick myself on a treadmill if there’s sunlight haha. Then again, I live in Houston in a busy neighborhood, so I’m never the only one on the street and it’s not freezing cold.
Lindsay @ Lindsay's List
I prefer to run WITH people…but only if they’re my pace. ;)
Sarah
i dont think my comments are working.. testing, testing 1 2 3…
Chelsea
Every morning when I wake up at 5am to get to the gym, I always think that someone is going to waiting in my car or waiting around my car to snatch me. It scares the heck out of me because it is always so dark out…I need to invest in some pepper spray.
FoodFaithFitness
I won’t run alone. First of all, it’s unmotivating. Second, not safe. I like my chit-chat girlfriend time! Unless we’re doing speedwork, then we just listen to each other breathe heavily. It makes the time go by!
Jan J
Hey, I’m glad to see that you won’t be running alone in the canyon any more! When I saw your pics the other day I wondered why you were alone! I’m still paranoid from the Provo trail attacks last year (or the year before that?).
I don’t run alone in the dark! Hate it! And my Vegas Ragnar experience sealed the deal (creepy guy joining me on my run in the middle of the night all by myself on an isolated trail!!!! By railroad tracks!) And I don’t run alone on canyon trails, even in the daytime.
Sarah
I don’t like running alone in the wee hours of the morning either. I’ve done it a few times and I always felt like the next car coming up the street was going to hit me or the Boogeyman would jump out from behind some tree. Not worth it :( I enjoy having the bathroom just steps away from my treadmill too!
Liz (Little Bitty Bakes)
So, from now on at work whenever there seems to be a problem, should I just pull out a can of frosting? HA! That was the only situation I could legitimately think of that frosting wouldn’t make better.
I run alone all the time! I know it can be bad, but I learned from my parents. And my theory is always, well, if something really did happen, at least I was out doing what I loved. That sounds awful. Wait, FROSTING! Maybe I should just run with a can of frosting to make me feel safe?
Krissy @ Shiawase Life
I’m with ya, Janae. With my work schedule, I really don’t feel comfortable running in the dark alone before work, and by the time work is over, I’m too tired, have grad classes or it’s too dark, so weekdays = inside running.
Kaelin
I always run alone and maybe occasionally graced by the presence of my husband. But I guess I’m not totally alone. My dog runs with me every time out. I may be naive, but I think she makes me feel safer. That if someone approached she would deter them. I don’t know that sounds ridiculous, but I feel safer with her. My runs have been in the dark mornings lately, but in town with decent traffic. +1 for “Janae NEEDS a dog”!!!
Heidi
I ran outside in the mornings all summer alone because it was nice and bright and lots of other runners/walkers around. Now that it’s pitch black when I wake up to workout I head to the gym or save my run for lunchtime or after work when there’s lots of light and people! I also am too nervous to run alone in the dark in the morning even though I life in a safe neighborhood, it just wouldn’t be relaxing!
I lovvvvvve sea salt and malt vinegar chips!!
running ricig
I freak myself out walking the dog alone in the dark, I’m definitely a disaster running completely alone.
Missy
I really like running alone but I haven’t been running in the dark anymore in the mornings, I try to run after work when it’s still a little bit light outside or I hit up the treadmill at my gym.
I love Doritos, all flavors! Yum!
Jenny Finnegan
I always run alone too, but I stopped running in the dark mornings by myself. It was making me nervous. I do my long runs at a park where I can do a 5 mile loop. There are no cars and there are lots of people. It can get boring sometimes, but at least it’s safe.
I don’t know if I can decide between Cool Ranch and Nacho Cheese! I think today I pick Nacho Cheese, but my all time favorites are Salt & Vinegar too! Ok, or regular tortillas chips with salsa! xo
Dorry
I run alone all the time! I actually really enjoy it. And 5 miles or less, I rarely take my iPod. I run when it’s light outside in safe neighborhoods and I’m always very aware of my surroundings. Cool Ranch Doritos remind me of 6th grade! Can’t remember the last time I had them…my favorite growing up was Cheetos and I think I’d grab them over Doritos any day. :)
Caitlin R
I run alone a lot but I like to think I’m safe because i run through heavily populated suburbs where people are always out cutting grass or kids are out playing. I will never run on a trail in the woods alone, though. I always figure if there are witnesses around it’s okay to run… But I do run at 5am around my neighborhood a lot, but it’s a housing plan so I feel a little safer and wear a vest, head lamp, and reflective blinkers. I always see another runner out, too!!
Mary
Link to Monica’s blog?
Christina
I usually run alone whenever, but I get pretty scared (using this in my argument for us to get a dog so I have a running buddy/protector). I’m from south Texas originally and we don’t have “fall,” so it was new to me when I moved to Maryland. One morning while it was still dark out I was running and I kept hearing something behind me. I stopped several times and looked everywhere and at one point ran really fast because I was getting really freaked that someone was following me. Finally I figured out that all the leaves on the ground were blowing around as I ran by them and making sounds on the sidewalk. Even though I know what it is now, it still really freaks me out!
Shannon @ Mon Amour
I always run alone but I wear reflective gear and don’t go when it is still dark out. I always feel safe when in my hometown but I moved to Baltimore for school in August and it is definitely not the safest place to run alone. I bring pepper spray with me though
Paula
Lately I have been running a lot with my husband at all hours of the day and night. However if I am running by myself I don’t run in the dark. I’m too big a scaredy cat, even though we live in a safe neighborhood. And cheese doritos for me, but I do prefer Cheez-its instead : )
Erin
We are chip soul mates. I would choose cool ranch over regular any day and S&V is my very favorite chip. As for the frosting issue… the *only* problem it does not solve is the problem of me not fitting into my jeans. Other than that, it’s pretty amazing.
Luv What You Do
I am ALWAYS running alone. Although I would LOVE a running buddy, I haven’t found one yet : (
In the mornings, I go on our local path only when it is light and when it gets dark, I head to the gym. I do run at dusk by myself, but only in crowded and well-lit areas. It’s Chicago in the fall and if I only ran during the day, I wouldn’t be able to run at all!
I DO think that I need to get one of those whistles though!
Congrats on the end to your season.
Andrea
Doritos, donuts AND cake? Can I be on your CC team, please? I prefer the cheese Doritos but I don’t ever buy them because I can polish off an entire bag in ONE sitting.
I almost always run alone. There is a running path along the bay and it’s so, so pretty. I run on that in the winter months alone with it’s dark outside. The first few times I did, I was nervous but there are always other runners/walkers/bikers so for whatever reason that makes me feel safe. I usually run in the evening alone twice a week and then my longer weekend run is during the day. But I make sure the BF knows my route and he knows if I’m gone too long, to come looking. :)
Tiffany
I only run alone (outdoors) during the day and I only ever run alone; so that equates to a lot of treadmill time, but luckily I love the treadmill too.
I do feel better about running outside now that I bought some pepper spray and a water belt thing with a pocket for my phone BUT I won’t even go during the day without my safety stuff. My mom raised me to be totally paranoid of kidnappers!
christina cadden
I always run alone. I usually have my phone and mace on me though!
Kate @ Chasing It
Ooh yeah I never run alone outside if it’s dark – whether that means early AM or late afternoon! Sometimes I leave for a run as the sun’s coming up or as its going down…in which case I just throw on a really fashionable neon reflector vest! (hot stuff!). But I stay in my neighboorhood and NEVER go on the trail if its dark – I got followed home from the trail on an evening run once and had to call the police, it was NOT cool.
On a lighter note, can I be on your XC team just for the food??? :-P
Andrea (Run. Learn. Repeat.)
I’m like you and will run on the treadmill even when I’d rather be outside just to be safe. I used to do up to ten miles on the treadmill in the mornings during my last marathon training, and I just wanted to be outside so bad, but it was too dark and not safe. I’ve heard too many scary stories! I will run alone in the middle of the day though.
Jina
I rarely run alone … not because I’m scared, just because I hate running by myself. I love my training group.
Lindsey
I do run alone probably 80% of the time outside. I always run at day and try to keep to busy roads with open trails or residential streets. I am probably over paranoid and am constantly watching my surroundings. If I go through any treed area I take my iPod out too. I always like to run with a buddy if possible :)
Vanessa @ Gourmet Runner
Where I live I *can’t* run outside. It’s way too dangerous (major highway with 18 wheelers!) so I have a treadmill. Sometimes I drive into town to drive, but a few times a week it’s easier for me to stay on the TM. And yes, I feel so much safer!
I love salt and vinegar. Nothing else even comes close!
:)
Nicole
I can certainly relate to this and was just thinking about it! I live in NYC and my parents live in NJ and I 100% feel safer running in NYC (by myself) then around long country dirt roads in NJ…if you can you should try running in a city or city like area where there are more people, you will probably feel more comfortable!
Lauren
Hahaha I like your celebration snacks.
Alyssa
I almost always run alone…but now if it is in the dark or someplace even minorly secluded I have either my phone or pepper spray (maybe both). I used to run in West Palm Beach, FL in the early early mornings when it was still dark, alone, without the phone or pepper spray. Let’s just say God did a super good job of protecting me because now I think, wow, that was so dumb.
amy
Safety is a basic human need, without it our other needs cannot be met. Just ask Maslow he ranks it right after our needs fro breathing and food ( I mean the guy has something right when he creates a list that goes breathing, icecream, security!)
Christina @ Just Running
Why didn’t you invite me to your cross country party? :)
Christina @ Just Running
Also, I ONLY run alone. The last time I ran with someone else was over a year ago. Also, I only run at night. I usually head out around 9 or 10 p.m. Sometimes I head out earlier if I’m doing 20 miles or something, but I don’t feel weird running by myself at 1 a.m. I live in suburbia and am always on a sidewalk and within 10 feet of house.
Lauren
I dont think the link to Monicas blog worked…would love to read your post!
Janae
Oh bummer!! Sorry about that, I will fix it right now! thanks for letting me know!
esmemerrie
I love running alone! I’m a night hawk so it’s a little bit scary but the adrenaline just pushes me faster!
Carrie Shaw
I usually run alone but in the city and not at night- I do get paranoid about it if I feel it’s not safe. I think running alone and with others are such different experiences and I love them both!
Khushboo
I know a lot of people love having running buddies but I love running solo…it’s my ‘me’ time and I just want to zone out…there’s another 23 hours in the day that I can share my time with!
Jim
I prefer to run alone outdoors all the time – but I make every effort to avoid running during hours of darkness. Okay, I’m a guy, so my fears are somewhat more self-absorbed around injuries (stepping on an unseen pine cone/into a pothole and injuring myself), loose dogs (the carnivorous ones that patiently wait for me at curbside, complete with bib) and vehicles. I’ve encountered all three of those hazards and I think I prefer the latter… “Alex, I’ll take ‘Wayward Drivers’ for $400”.
Anyway, I just feel much more comfortable being able to see where I’m running. Plus, I’m an oddball and enjoy the scenery as I pass it by, even if it is the same neighborhood over and over again.
…and Doritos Nacho Cheese. I mean, c’mon… pfffth! It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Janae
Great point, that is another reason to not run in the dark! You have encountered ALL THREE of those hazards….holy cow!
I think we are going to have to agree to disagree about the Doritos:) Have a great day!
Kate (What Kate is Cooking)
I hate running in the dark! I never run at night (well, hardly ever) but I’ve gotten up super early to do long runs and I’m always convinced I’m goin gto be kidnapped!
Amanda@runninghood
I run alone all the time…morning noon and night. Oh, and I’m in the market for a treadmill so dish you advice pleeeeease! Did you get yours at Costco??
Corrie Anne
Ever since I moved to Denver, I get nervous about running alone because of coyotes and rattlesnakes. When I lived in the DR, I would only run during daylight hours which meant after school @ 4PM in the blazing sun. But I did it. In Wabasha, I basically have no qualms about running anywhere at any time of day. But it’s such a teeny tiny little town!
Ida
I run alone, but on well populated paths/streets only.
I’m not a huge doritos fan, which is weird b/c I am a lover of all things salty. Classic, plain ruffles are a personal fave.
Grace
I always run alone and am never nervous…probably because I live in the safest, most boring suburban community ever. But even when I’ve done some more urban running (at night too), I just don’t get worried. I probably should, though…there’s a fine line between confident and complacent.
Cait the Arty Runnerchick
i used to run alone everywhere, anytime, without any fear. but i got hit by a car while out running on the road…mind u in the middle of the day and next to a school of all places, and since then it took me FOREVER to even brave running outside. i’ve done it now, but i think going forward i’ll be much smarter. so would i run in the early morning hours outside by myself…heck no, i’ll stick with my treadmill and opt for pulling out my wackiest outfits if i should so choose. :)
and, what an awesome spread u have for those cross kids! :)
Lindie
That picture is classic! I run alone, but only in the daytime hours and on streets that have occasional traffic on them. I never run alone after dark or on sketchy roads (like up the canyon)! It freaks me out. I just did Ragnar Las Vegas and my night run creeped me out because I was all by myself on a trail that was dark with no van support… Ones imagination can go wild for sure! Oh did I sprint that leg!
I love the cool ranch doritos better than the cheese, but my all time favorite chips are Tostitos Lime!! Yummy!
RainStorm
For about 5 months of the year I leave for work in the dark and arrive home in the dark, so there’s no option about whether I run in the dark! And I normally run alone (although I have bullied a friend into joining me one a week). I don’t have a treadmill and at the moment I’m not a member of a gym – maybe that’s something I need to remedy!
But I don’t usually feel unsafe running around our neighbourhood. The most annoying thing is the occassional car horn as they drive past!
emily
Same – busy roads all the way for me if running alone. Not so good for my lungs in terms of pollution (London’s air ain’t the best)… I also run with my boyfriend and we run along the river path. It’s v green and overhung with trees and also pretty dark now (we run in the evening together). Crazy thing is I see girls walking home alone, sometimes with headphones in on this path and I wonder whether they’re taking a huge chance or whether I’m overly paranoid.
rache
I always run alone (no running buddies :( ) and in the Winter in the dark BUT at night in well lit city roads. I tried doing morning runs but like Brittany said above, it was actually scarier because the streets are DESERTED! At least for women, TM are the safer option.
Samantha
I always run alone! I really need to find a running buddy now that my runs are getting longer… But for now, I’m pretty much sticking to the treadmill. Pretty much, if I needed to always have someone to workout with me, I WOULD NEVER WORK OUT! Haha
Chip wise I am a large fan of sour cream and onion anything :)
Jenny
New reader here..really enjoying your blog!
I used to run alone all the time – even at night – when I was living in OK..I never felt threatened, but I was always fairly alert as well (music turned low, ran in areas with lots of street lights, always checking around me, etc.)
Where I live now..I don’t even feel safe running by myself during the day most of the time :/ This has meant a lot of treadmill time..trying to train for a 1/2 marathon on a treadmill is sort of driving me cuckoo :P
Janae
HEY JENNY!! Thanks for commenting:) I completely understand how hard it is to train so much on the treadmill!! What half are you training for?
Jenny
Depends where I end up in April :P
It’s either going to be the Memorial half in OK city, or the Two Oceans half marathon :)
Yolanda
I’m training for a half and primarily on the treadmill!!! My long run is outside on the weekend during the day so that I don’t freak myself out. My imagination can really get going sometimes. Good luck!
Brittany @ GOtheXtraMile
I am the SAME way!! I freak myself out way too much so I refuse to run outside alone when it is dark / almost dark. Esp cause my city has a serial rapist on the loose! No thanks, I’m even too scared to walk outside haha. I’d pick the cool ranch those are totally addicting!
Chris
I always run alone, or at least 90% of the time. I run before work at 5:30am, and at this time of year it’s dark. But I live in a small town and never really worry about anything happening. I usually see the same people too, out walking their dog or running themselves. One morning I did see a couple of guys that made me nervous (it wasn’t clear why they were out?). When I do get nervous, I think about what my plan is if someone does approach me – which direction will I run? Where’s the closest house with .ights on? That kind of thing.
Laura
Hahaha cracking up at that picture of Billy scaring the crap out of you.
I always run alone because I have no runner friends (I’ve asked so many times already!) and my boyfriend hates anything sport related so I do run in the morning, in the night, and I’m not really scared of weird people…
Melissa @ Green Mountain Runner
I used to get up in the mornings and go running alone all the time. Then the routes that I took there were reports of a “serial groper” and I was convinced they were after me (conseited much?) so I stopped running in the mornings. I just got way too freaked out and couldn’t handle it.
LOVE doritos! Haven’t had them in a really long time though because I cannot be trusted with them. They just don’t stand a chance!
Jennie
Never. I NEVER run alone in the dark, either morning or night. I figure even if my treadmill isn’t as complete a workout as running outside it’s still better than nothing. I do run by myself when it’s light out, but I only started that very recently, even though I’m 30. I only run in neighborhoods, and I get scared biking by myself too, I only go with my husband. A few years ago I had a real life stalker that I had to get a restraining order against, so that makes me super nervous and vigilant, and highlights the beauty and safety of my basement.
Kattrina
I hate running alone in the dark but have done it many times this season. In Sept. I started a Saturday morning class but that was also the only day I could do my long runs. So I had to start running at 4:40am in order to finish my 18 milers before class at 9:30am (with enough time to stretch, take an ice bath, shower, and eat breakfast). Pretty much every Saturday run in September and October were done in the dark of the morning. A few times I had a friend who was willing to get up that early on a Saturday but it was only about half the time. Towards the end even the shorter 10 mile runs were spent in the dark. I was TERRIFIED. I kept looking behind me and ran with a “rape” whistle and my cell phone. I never actually had any problems but it nerve-wracking because there was NO ONE out at 5am on a Saturday – no cars, no people walking dogs, no runners, nothing. I’ve done a few runs at night but it’s not quite as scary because there are people around and lots of cars. Now that my marathon is almost here I don’t think I’ll be doing too many more of those runs, especially as it gets colder and colder.
Anna
I run alone almost always. I usually run from 5:30am-7:00am, and this time a year that means I start before the sunrise – and finish before the sunrise. I live in a not-so-great city, but I stick to bigger roads, as well as a major university campus that is well lit.
I actually feel safer running in the morning darkness than running in the afternoon/evening. All the creepy people are still in bed in the morning.
Much after 7 and they start getting up…I bike to work at 8:15am and often get followed…until they figure out I’m going to work in a correctional institute :)
Tara
At home; I always head out alone. I dont mind running at night in the dark, there are usually cars on the roads and I know my neighborhood well. My only fear is tripping and hurting myself. I do get nervous in the early morning, when not alot of people are up and about.
I live 1/2 a mile from reservation trails, I LOVE them and we walk the dogs there all the time. I am not allowed to walk the dogs or jog up there alone. There are plenty of people w/dogs, or jogging, but you just never know!!
I think my 75 yr old mother worries about me more than the hubby does!
Oh Doritos-I just cannot eat them anymore, I will 1-eat the entire bag if they are in front of me 2-they will definitely have me doubled over in pain about 30 mins after I finish the bag. But I am all about the cheese, although, I would not turn down a tall, dark bag of cool ranch!
Nicole
Occasionally, I treadmill it (speedwork in winter? Um, I’m going inside for that. No ice for me.), but I always run alone. It’s always very early morning, too. I stay on the main street that leads from my town and into the next and it’s fine. There are loads of other runners out there, too. The main streets are fairly well lit and I feel safe. What does creep me out? Walking down the 40+ stairs that leads from our place to the street (2nd floor, huge hill). For some reason, the STAIRS creep me out. Every morning, without fail. I must look like I’m in a horror movie, turning every which way and looking around. LOL.
Sabrina @ Radioactive Runner
I trained for a whole winter running very early mornings – in the dark. I was SOO scared every time. I would always call my Mom and tell her my route and time of when I was running incase I never made it home.. you know, incase someone abducted me lol. I like running at dawn and don’t get as scared. Running at night time is out of the question.. my mind goes crazy and I get so freaked out.
Mary @ food and fun on the run
I almost always run alone, in the dark, in the morning. I am always very aware of my surroundings. I get lucky and my dog will come with me sometimes, which always makes me feel better. I never wear both ear phones in my ears when I am alone though, that way I can hear people coming up around me. And I am always sure to let my husband know where I am going. Keeping that place in check makes me feel a lot better about it :)
Michele C
I almost always run alone in the dark but my mother-in-law and I have been running together some mornings before sunrise for safety (she lives in my neighborhood). Since it doesn’t get light until 7:30 I’ve had no choice but to run in the dark early mornings. I really don’t like it, but there’s no other time to go! I need daylight savings to end! I stay in the surrounding neighborhoods but I’m still paranoid.
And I think Cool Ranch and Nacho Cheese are equally delicious!
Danica @ GirlsThatRun
Mmm cool ranch!
I ran by myself after work on Tuesday and during the last mile of my run it started getting dark. I was SO paranoid! I realize I definitely should bring a person AND my cell phone with me if it’s going to get dark on my run because every time a big truck or van drove by (I was on a quiet neighborhood street) I would duck behind a tree or car and I kept looking over my shoulder ever 2 minutes. Too nerve racking!
Jen
I run alone, but only on streets, particularly that have houses close to the road. And I will run at night alone, but only in very well-lit areas. And I NEVER listen to music when I run early in the morning, at night, or in the woods. Safety first!
Rene'
I hate running alone. I live in a rural area and totally freak myself out on some of the roads. I always think that someone is going to kidnap me. I actually run with hot pepper spray when I am by myself. Be careful and no more canyon running alone!
No Doritos. uhhhhhh….I hate the smell but my kids would tell you that they love cool ranch:)
Jess @ Blonde Ponytail
Such a great point about running on a TM. I take for granted the safety of a small town. Now, that the days are shorter, I have my hubby and Cooper join me for early runs–there are so many days I wish I had a treadmill though!
Jess @ Blonde Ponytail
And, Health Teacher of the Year btw! he he!!
Yolanda
Thanks for letting me know I’m not alone! Friends have made me feel insane for being afraid of running alone in Baltimore. I’m okay with my long run on a weekend morning, but I stay on busy streets while a lot of other people are out running….NEVER at night. The treadmill allows me to relax, run to the bathroom and sing to my heart’s content.
I never met a Dorito I didn’t like!
trouble
I was attacked by a man when I was running outside. It was a terrible and awful experience. Luckily I screamed and made a scene and someone came by and helped. Needless to say I don’t run alone outside anymore. Who knows what would have happened if a lady passing by did not help me! I like the comfort of the treadmill. I feel safe, it keeps my pace for me, there are t.v.’s and eye candy. It’s a win-win.
Jaeme + Randy
My mom made us all promise we will never run up the canyon by ourselves. I think its a pretty good idea. I also never run by myself when it is dark!
Krystle
How many days per week do you train on the treadmill? How much incline do you use? Thanks!!! I too love running on the treadmill when its dark out and the TV and music are always a plus too :)