A double Olympian has shared his top tips for running safely in winter.
Steve Brace, who represented Great Britain in the men's marathon at the summer Olympics in 1992 and 1996 and race director of Run 4 Wales, emphasised the importance of being prepared when running in the dark.
He said: "When running at night always choose a well-lit path and avoid any secluded areas.
"If you’re running on a road, make sure you face towards incoming traffic.
"Always tell someone where you’re going and what time you’re expecting to be back."
The former Paris and Berlin Marathon winner also highlighted the need to dress appropriately for the cold and dark winter nights.
He suggested wearing layers, thick socks, gloves, and a buff to protect extremities, and reflective clothing to ensure visibility to other road users.
A headtorch is also advised.
Brace warned against using headphones while running in the dark, to ensure awareness of surroundings.
He also advised carrying a mobile phone and a small amount of money in case of emergencies.
Running with others, whether it's with a club or a friend, is recommended for both safety and motivation.
In addition to safety tips, Mr Brace advised warming up thoroughly before a run in the cold to prevent injury.
He suggested activities to get the blood circulating, such as running stairs or active stretching.
Mr Brace also encouraged runners to sign up for events to stay motivated during the winter months.
For more information on Run 4 Wales’ events, visit the Run 4 Wales website.
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