Texas Living

Light Up Your Workout

By Haley Shapley 10.29.14

With the change of the seasons and daylight saving time on the horizon, there’s no denying that the days are getting shorter. That early-evening run or bike ride you’ve become accustomed to completing with the sun still shining has slipped away with summer barbecues and lazy days poolside. Even so, it doesn’t have to be lights out on exercising in the dark — just make sure you take precautions to stay visible to motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. Here’s how:

Dress to shine. Working out isn’t exactly the same as walking a runway, but it’s understandable if you’re not keen on looking like a construction worker. There are lots of reflective clothing lines (like Nightlife from Brooks) that are fashion-forward and will get the job of keeping you lit up like a (well-dressed) Christmas tree done.

Wear a vest to impress. Trail runners, especially, might dig something like the lightweight Synergy Hydration Lightvest from GoMotion, which illuminates the way with a light attached to the sternum strap. On the back, there are two flashing red LED taillights and reflective strips.

Light it up. In Texas, it’s the law to have a white light on the front and a red reflector or light on the rear of your bicycle. You also might want to consider adding fun and functional reflective decals to the frame — who wouldn’t want a glow-in-the-dark bike?

Help Spot be spotted. Don’t forget about your prized pooch if he comes along on after-dark strolls with you. He’ll look precious (and stay safe) in a polka-dotted bandana, eye-catching leash, and reflective-strip-equipped raincoat.