There have been quite a few scary incidents lately in the world of running. It has made me question whether or not I should run outside and definitely has me second-guessing what route to take.
That said, I refuse to let all of the horrible people out there keep me from the sport I love. Rather than give up running or submit to doing every run on the treadmill, I reached out to some runner friends to find out what they do to stay safe while running.
Their tips are pretty awesome, so I've put them all together in this How To Stay Safe While Running Guide. By taking a few extra safety measures, we can all feel safe and be safe on our runs. Safety first, kids!
Make sure someone knows where you are going, the route you are taking, and approximately when you will be back. If I am lagging behind, I will send a quick text to my husband to let him know. - Jennifer from Runs With Pugs
If it's a late night run, I plan my route with safety spots that I can go into if I feel unsafe. - Carmy from Carmyy.com
Join a running group! Safety in numbers. There are so many running groups now. You don't have to be fast to join a group but you might get fast. - Deborah from Confessions of a Mother Runner
Leave the headphones at home if you're running in the dark or in an area where you are alone. Then use your ears and eyes to stay aware. Don't let yourself get into that zone we sometimes do when we're running. Pay attention then listen to your instincts. - Debbie from Coach Debbie Runs
If you have iOS make sure you program your emergency contact information into the Health App. In case of emergency that information can be retrieved without a security code/password. - Nellie from Brooklyn Active Mama
Either wear an ID bracelet or use an app on your phone that allows for your home screen to display emergency contact information. - Kathryn from Dancing to Running
Don't experiment on a new route when running in the dark on your own, morning or night! Always pay attention to your surroundings, landmarks, poorly lit areas. - Janelle from Run With No Regrets
Run in the daylight in a populated area. Be aware of your surroundings and always trust your instincts. Even if you feel 'safe', have a plan. One time I felt uncomfortable with someone walking behind me so I went to the closest house, checked the mailbox, then went to the front door as if I were home. I pretended to look for my keys until he passed. It's unfortunate we have to think that way, but better to be safe than sorry! - Michelle from Fruition Fitness
Run with pepper spray. - Tricia from Misssippipiddlin
Greet or acknowledge people that you come across on the road/trail. It takes away a potential attacker's anonymity if you've exchanged a few words with them before and other people you've greeted along the way will be more likely to be able to identify you if you do go missing. It sucks to have to think like this, but it's way better to be safe. Don't always take the same route-change it up so they can't predict your usual routine. - Farrah from fairyburger.com
Plus, some bonus posts on the subject:
Safety Tips For Running
5 Reminders to Staying Safe on A Run
So get out there, stay safe, and join the Fit & Fashionable Friday Link Up (full rules here)!
