Tips for Running Safely

Recently, someone asked if I got scared going out for runs alone in the early morning.  My immediate instinct was to say no, which is kind of true but the more I got thinking about it I decided the real answer was that I was not scared, but I was cautious and put in a lot of safety prep for my runs.  The unfortunate part about being a female runner these days is that we constantly have to be on the lookout for creeps. Thankfully I live in a pretty safe area, but there are still times I feel nervous, and I still take precautions.

Reflective Clothing

I can’t tell you how many people I see running around in black clothing in the dark.  That’s just careless y’all. Make sure people can see you by wearing light colors and/or reflective gear.

Lights

Wear lights when running in the dark.  I LOVE my Noxgear! It’s super lightweight and makes me so visible.  I also love this clip on light by Nathan that has a chest strap. Super bright and illuminates well in front of you. Plus, it’s USB chargeable.

Awareness/Headphones

I know there are two camps on wearing headphones while running.  I personally don’t wear them. I used to, but over the years I find that I don’t really listen to what’s playing. I find my mind wandering and my form and pace are better when I’m not listening to anything. 

Of course, there are the occasional treadmill miles we all have to do now and then, and I will plug in to avoid dying of boredom. If you are a headphones person, that’s great but just make sure you are listening at a volume that allows you to hear someone coming up behind you, cars passing by, etc.  Bottom line: keep your wits about you!

Pepper Spray

I recently started carrying pepper spray when I run alone.  I found this really cool one on Amazon that slips over your hand and is easy to use, but not so easy that you’ll accidentally spray yourself in the face. Peppery spray isn’t just for bad guys either. Ever been chased by a dog on a run? I have and thankfully he was a sweet boy looking for a pal, but what if he wasn’t? I might need to make a quick getaway.

RoadID

Carry identification, you never know when you’ll need it.  I wear a RoadID, so in the event I can’t speak for myself, someone has my information and can call my emergency contacts.  

Run Against Traffic

This one kills me when I see it out in the world.  Y’all. If you can’t see a car coming up behind you, how can you get out of the way?  Always run against traffic when you can, even better on the sidewalk but reality doesn’t always give us that option.  People are always on their phones these days and I’ve actually had people swerve at me thinking it’s funny. It’s not.  

Run With a Buddy

One of the great things about running is that you can do it alone.  Buuuut, it’s also amazing when you find a good running buddy to talk with and watch the miles fly by.  Creeps are also less likely to take on a group. #girlpower

Vary Your Route

I’m guilty of this myself.  I’m a creature of habit and like to run the same places over and over again.  I’ve forced myself to start switching it up though and running in different places on different days.  I know sometimes this isn’t possible for busy schedules but however you can, try to keep yourself unpredictable in the awful event that someone might be watching.  Sorry friends but it happens.

I’m curious to know what other precautions you might take, or if any of these has kept you from a bad situation.  I also hope that if there are any men reading this who didn’t know…we don’t give you a wide berth because we’re snobs.  We’re just saving our own lives.