Who loves fall running? The crunch and beauty of the leaves, splendid cooler temps, post-run cider and donuts all make many of us giddy about the season.

While fall is a favorite time for many of us, there are some things we need to be reminded of this time of year. If you have any more fall running reminders, please add in the comment section!

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Fall Running Reminder: Leaves are Slippery

There is nothing like changing directions and slipping on some wet fall leaves. I’ll be the first to admit this has happened to me. No fun. Be aware of this danger as you do workouts and runs. When turning around or changing direction, pay close attention to the security of your foot fall.

This is good practice for when the ice comes in a few months too!

Fall Running Reminder: Drivers are in a Hurry 

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It’s unfortunate, but fall brings about more reckless driving. More activities start in the fall, and arguably people are more driving too close to runners and cyclists on the road. Have you noticed this trend?
As a runner, all we can do is be keenly aware and ready to direct a driver to give more space (I extend my arm) or be ready to dive off the road. This is something I believe has saved my life. 

As drivers too, let’s remember to give runners and cyclists 3ft. It’s the law. No timeliness is worth endangering another human life. Pedestrians have the right of way. 

Fall Running Reminder: Layering is key

Ok, you all know this, but it’s a good reminder… layer those clothes! As a Michigander, I would like to think that I am good at this, but I always find myself overdressing when the colder weather hits. A good 40-50 degree strategy is wearing shorts and tall compression socks, or ¾ tights. On top, it’s much simpler, wear a dri-fit t-shirt underneath, in case things warm up or you get warm as your body temperature rises.

These Oiselle ¾ spandex are my favorite. 

I often wear a long sleeve, and if I am not somewhere I feel comfortable dropping it, I tie it around my waist. 

I know many wise runners say to start cold (and that is ideal) but as a weather-weeny, I like to pull off layers as the run goes on and start comfortably. It helps me get out the door. Choose whatever strategy is best for you.

BONUS TIP: I often will wear old socks or dollar store gloves if I am worried my gloves might get picked up by someone else. I’ve had plenty of nice gloves stolen when I’ve dropped them during a run. If you do wear nice gloves, also wear clothes with pockets to store them.

You can pick up bulk inexpensive gloves on Amazon.

Fall Running Reminder: Stay Visible

Fall begins the season of running in the dark. Visibility is so important to give groggy morning drivers a chance to see you. 

On another note, it’s important that YOU can see where you are going too, with the wet leaves (as mentioned above), potholes, roadkill, and more. 

Here are some tools to help with visibility

Visibility vest, high visibility

Nathan Headlamp, less than $20

Simple vest, Less than $15

There are so many reflective items out there. There are jackets, visors, strips, cuffs, winter hats, all kinds of reflective gear. These items can help protect in the dark.

Fall Running Reminder: Communication is Important.

Fall is a time of more busyness for many of us. We talk a lot about thriving as runners at AtoZrunning. It is important that our relationships are attended to. In the fall, it’s important to remember that we should be clear about our training timeline and managing our family’s expectations. This suggestion has not come without a lot of personal growing pains in this area, and it continues to be something we work to be diligent at.

Key communication needs

• Timelines
• Sleep
• Scheduling 
• Including family (Related article: The Balance: Life & Fitness)

Any other reminders for fall? Please comment to add to the conversation. At AtoZrunning we like to hear from you too! Follow to be part of our free community.

Also, if you haven’t checked out the A to Z Running Podcast, please do! We are now on YouTube. We interview inspiring runners, olympians, and experts! AtoZrunning is here to help you thrive as a runner!