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As a woman runner, safety is always top of mind. While running is an empowering and liberating activity, it’s essential to take precautions to protect yourself from potential threats and hazards. Unfortunately, many women unknowingly make common safety mistakes that can compromise their well-being during runs. In this article, we’ll highlight eight of the most frequent safety mistakes and how you can avoid them, so you can keep running with confidence and peace of mind.
1. Running Alone in Isolated Areas
While it’s tempting to venture into quiet, scenic routes, running alone in isolated areas can put you at risk. Whether it’s a remote park or a secluded trail, the lack of witnesses or other runners could make it harder for someone to intervene in an emergency.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Always try to run in more populated or well-lit areas, especially during early mornings or late evenings.
- Consider running with a buddy or in a group for added safety.
- If you must run in remote locations, make sure someone knows your route and estimated return time.
2. Not Telling Someone Your Route and Timing
It’s common for runners to head out without informing anyone of their running plans. This mistake becomes especially concerning if something goes wrong, like a fall or sudden illness. No one will know where to look or how to find you.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Share your planned route and estimated time of return with a friend or family member before you head out.
- Use a tracking app like Strava or find my friends that can share your location in real-time with someone you trust.
- If you’re out for longer runs, consider checking in periodically through text or phone call.
3. Running Without Identification
Many women runners fail to carry identification during their runs, which can be a crucial detail if you ever find yourself in an emergency situation, such as being involved in an accident or needing medical attention.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Always carry an ID with you, even if it’s just a copy of your driver’s license or an ID bracelet.
- You can purchase a lightweight, compact ID holder or a safety bracelet that contains your personal information.
- Use a bracelet ID or a Shoe Tag, which allows you to store essential information like your name, emergency contact, and medical details in a lightweight, runner-friendly format.
4. Wearing Headphones at High Volumes
Listening to your favorite music or podcast can make your run more enjoyable, but it can also block out important environmental sounds, such as approaching traffic, honking cars, or even someone following you.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Keep the volume low so you can still hear what’s happening around you.
- Use bone-conduction headphones that leave your ears open to surrounding sounds.
- Alternatively, consider running without headphones in areas with more traffic or fewer distractions.
5. Running at Night Without Proper Visibility Gear
Running at night presents unique safety challenges due to reduced visibility, both for you and drivers or cyclists who may not see you in time.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Always wear reflective clothing, a vest, or gear designed to enhance visibility.
- Consider using a headlamp or a clip-on light to make yourself even more visible to others.
- Bright, neon colors are also helpful to stand out in low light conditions.
6. Not Carrying Self-Defense Tools
One of the most critical safety mistakes women runners make is neglecting to carry self-defense tools, like pepper spray or a personal safety alarm. While running is generally safe, being prepared for an emergency situation can provide peace of mind and protection.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Always carry a self-defense tool that you feel comfortable using, such as pepper spray, a personal alarm, or a safety ring.
- Go Guarded offers a variety of safety tools for runners, including stylish self-defense rings that are discreet but effective in protecting yourself if needed.
- Additionally, consider taking a self-defense class to increase your confidence and readiness if faced with a threatening situation.
7. Ignoring Weather Conditions
Running in extreme weather conditions, such as intense heat, cold, or rain, can increase the risk of injury or health issues, like dehydration, hypothermia, or a fall due to slippery conditions.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Always check the weather forecast before heading out for a run.
- Dress appropriately for the weather with moisture-wicking fabrics, layers, and protective gear.
- If the weather is severe, consider opting for an indoor treadmill or cross-training exercise.
8. Not Staying Aware of Your Surroundings
One of the most important aspects of safety is maintaining awareness during your run. Whether you’re too focused on your pace, music, or your phone, not paying attention to what’s happening around you can increase the risk of accidents or dangerous situations, like crossing the street without noticing oncoming traffic or being unaware of someone following you.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Stay alert and avoid distractions like texting or deep focus on your phone.
- Continuously scan your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar or potentially risky areas.
- Be aware of traffic, other runners, cyclists, and pedestrians, especially in urban or busy environments.
- Avoid running with your back to oncoming traffic; run on the left side of the road where possible, facing traffic.
Protect Yourself with Go Guarded Products
Running should be a fun and empowering activity, but safety should always be your top priority. To help ensure your runs are safe, consider investing in self-defense tools designed specifically for runners.
Go Guarded offers a range of discreet and effective self-defense products, including:
- Go Guarded Ring – Stylish, discreet self-defense rings that allow you to protect yourself in a flash.
- Go Guarded Hand-Held with Pepper Spray – Provides double the protection – Pepper spray AND a Go Guarded knife!.
- Go Guarded Hand-Held with Alarm – Loud and attention-grabbing alarms that can deter attackers and alert bystanders.
Save 10% on all Go Guarded products with my exclusive discount code! Use the code RW10 at checkout to get 10% off your purchase. Don’t wait—protect yourself today!
Final Thoughts
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be able to run with more confidence, knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to prioritize your safety. Always be aware of your surroundings, carry self-defense tools, and plan ahead for emergencies. Happy running!
