SAFELY OUTDOORS
Running outdoors is such a mood lifter and a chance to enjoy the sunshine and just being outside. It’s easier to pick up your pace running down a hill, or to sprint up the hill to work on your speed and momentum. Running outside doesn’t have to be scary, but there are a few things that you can do, to make yourself as safe as possible.
For starters, very rarely do I wear earbuds and listen to music or a podcast. Sometimes I will, but I prefer the sounds of the birds chirping or hearing the leaves rustle in the wind. I’m also able to hear an oncoming vehicle or if someone is running up behind me at a faster pace I’m able to get out of their way. If you must run with music, maybe just let it play off of your phone’s speakers. By doing so, it could also help others to hear you along their path, as well. I take my furbaby as much as possible. It’s more as an added bonus time together as we both love it, but would someone actually approach another with a dog? If you do not have a dog, maybe you have a friend that for whatever reason is unable to run theirs that you’re able to borrow. Even better yet, check with your local shelter to see if they have any that would enjoy some extra exercise. Just do not blame me if you end up adopting and bringing one home.
Let people know when you are about to run and where you are running so they will be able to gage when you should be home. They even make apps in which you are able to download that will share your path with those you have opted to know. Invest in a Road ID. For less than $30 you can order an ID to include emergency contacts in the event something does happen to you, people will know who to call. Maybe think about carrying pepper spray. You should be able to buy some at your local running store, but Amazon Prime for sure carries it. You can also run with a friend or in a group. Not only will there be more than one, but the chances are also pretty high that there will be laughter and chit chat to help pass the miles by.
Running outside doesn’t have to be scary. I do it as much as I am able to. You just need to be aware and mindful of your surroundings.
