How to Stay Safe When Running Alone

The beauty of running is that we can do it at anytime anywhere but, as modern city dwellers, especially women, we need to keep a few things in mind when running alone.

Here's a few....

Let People Know Where You Are

Always tell someone the route you’ll be taking and about how long you’ll be running for. You should try to map out your runs in areas that are highly populated so you’ll see other runners/walkers along the way.

Pick Daylight Hours

Whenever possible, aim to run in daylight hours. You’re better able to see the surface you’re running on, and you’ll generally see more people while out on your route. If you can only run early in the morning or late at night, aim to run in well-lit areas, and be sure to wear reflective clothing, especially in rural areas, so that you can be seen by cars, bikes, and pedestrians.

Vary Your Runs

If you are running regularly at the same time of day, and on the same days of the week, vary your route or distance so that your movements aren’t predictable. I know it sounds like something out of a spy thriller but it is a real bit of caution in this day and age. Aside from being a protective measure, variety keeps “route boredom” at bay.

Carry Emergency Items

In case of unexpected events, always carry with you some form of ID (i.e: your health card), a $20 bill (for cab fare), and a quarter (for a phone call). These items can easily fit in a small Ziploc bag to carry in your pocket. If you have a place to store your cellphone, it’s a good idea to take it with you. That way, you don’t have to hunt down a payphone if an emergency comes up.

Ditch the headphones

Although music can be a good motivator while running, wearing headphones reduces your awareness of what’s going on around you. Even if the volume is low, your ability to hear vehicles, bikes, people, or animals is greatly impaired. You want all your senses available to you when you’re running alone.

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