More Than Just Running Safety Tips
First, yes, the title of this article is Running Safety Tips; however this applies to everyone who puts themselves into the outdoors to exercise.
I am a runner, or at least I used to be. Today I consider myself a “washed up,” trying to start running again sloth runner. Running brought me, and really still brings me, a mental peace. I prefer outdoor running instead of the treadmill, because of this I can connect with nature and get out of my own head. However, being outside exposes me to different concerns that I need to be aware of. None of us are perfect, but I am sure all of us want to go home safely to our families at the end of the day, especially after a run. I thought I would share some of the things I actively work on to stay safe while out running, jogging, walking or even crawling.As always, safety starts with awareness. I am not going to add this as one of the tips. You should already be doing this. Be aware of your surroundings and the things that don’t feel right. If you ever get that weird feeling in the pit of your stomach or you “feel” like something is not right, that is your 6th sense…Intuition. Trust it, listen to it, do not ignore it, it is NEVER wrong. If you feel it, move to a secure and safe location.
Top 3 Safety Tips for Running Solo (or Being Outside by Yourself):
Tip 1 – Listen:
Listening is a critical tool in staying safe and even survival. What are some of the things you might listen for…Vehicles, Voices, Footsteps, Barking, Thunder, Alarms. This is just the top of the list. Listening is an important component of survival not only if you are in a critical situation but to AVOID that situation in the first place. If you are like me, you like to listen to music or an audio book to help keep you moving. This is all fine and dandy until the method of listening blocks all other sound. The inner ear headphones and over the head headsets are awesome for getting into your groove, but block all other sound, leaving your ability to avoid a situation diminished. Don’t fret, you have other “listening” options. Things like bone conducting headphones that do not block your ear. You could even just play your music on the phone speaker to keep your ability to hear clear and open to your surroundings.
Tip 2 – Stand Out:
In reality, this means Be Visible. One of the safety components of exercising outdoors that isn’t talked about much, is making sure others see you. They can see where you are so they don’t hit you, they can see where you are if you are hurt and can’t call or signal for help, they can see where you are when you are running in low light or dark environments. I am guilty of running in my favorite color of clothing…black. Wearing bright clothes, a head or waist lamp or even a reflective vest is an important piece of gear to stay safe while you are out. If it is dusk or dark, a great accessory is the head lamp or waist lamp. Not only can others see you, but it will light your way, ensuring you can see trip and fall hazards before taking the next step.
Tip 3 – Plan
It is imperative that you have a plan and stick to the plan. This includes your route, the time allotted, starting and end points, places you may stop and take a break and your plan to communicate that you need help. You need people on the other end of your plan so that they can be aware if you are not on schedule and take the next steps to help you should you need it. There are a variety of different tools to manage your plan. There are running apps that show live GPS pinpoints. There are safety accessories that let you push a button for help. There are even personal defense tools like pepper sprays with GPS capabilities that connect with your emergency contact list to allow you to call for help when you can’t actually call. You need to set your plan and stick to it.
Incorporate These Safety Tips into Everyday Life
Remember, you do not have to be running to incorporate these safety tips into your everyday life, and these are just three of many safety tips that you can incorporate to stay safe. Having a plan and sticking to it will make your outside recreation time not only a success but more enjoyable. Now, it’s on you. Not having a safety plan is no longer your excuse to not get off the couch and head outside. Let’s make a pact that we will commit to improving our health by getting outside, moving and doing it safely!
Note: SLG2, Inc may receive a small commission for any product links in this article.