5 Tips to Stay Safe as a Female Runner
Personal safety is of the upmost importance, especially for women who prefer to run alone. Though there are dangers that come with the territory, running alone can be empowering, uplifting and is great for your mind and body. Every runner deserves the right to exercise without fear, but that doesn't mean that you should not be vigilant. These five tips will help you stay safe and enjoy your exercise.
1. Stick to well-populated areas
Of course, the most obvious tips have to go first. It can be tempting to take the road less traveled for your run, but taking the scenic route can be dangerous if you are not completely aware of your surroundings. Unless you live in a rural area, stick to running on public sidewalks around businesses and homes. It is always beneficial to make sure that there are people around while you are exercising. If you live in a small town, try doing one or two loops around the outskirts of the town center. It will give you a good workout while staying close to the action.
2. Run during daylight hours
This can be difficult, especially during the winter months where the sun sets early. But running at night is dangerous for anyone, not just women, as you are less visible to other people and traffic. This can easily lead to an accident, and it's generally a good rule of thumb to avoid running at night.
3. Share your location in multiple ways
While it's always good to tell your friends and family where you plan on running, a live location tracker is an even better option. Tell your household members where you are going and share your location with 3-5 close friends or family members. On iPhones, this can be done through the Find My Friends function. The app Life360 is another great option for sharing your whereabouts with trusted individuals.
4. Have a digital panic button
In recent years, an array of digital panic buttons which automatically contact authorities and send location data to contacts have been developed in the form of apps. Red Panic Button is an app which can be downloaded on Android and iPhone, and it can be integrated to smart watches as well. By pressing the button on the app, your location coordinates are shared with your customized list of emergency contacts.
5. Try a running vest
It might not be the most aesthetically pleasing, but a good running vest can be helpful to safety. Not only are most of them high visibility, but they also come with a very loud whistle attached. There are many pockets to be able to carry your phone, keys, and any personal defense items that you may need. It is a great way to make sure you can carry all that you need to keep yourself safe while running without filling your hands up with unnecessary items.