With the rise of running as a way to stay fit and healthy, it’s important for joggers to know proper self-defense strategies in case they ever find themselves in an unsafe situation.
While it’s impossible to guarantee complete safety while running outdoors, there are some practical steps you can take that will help give you peace of mind while you're busy pounding on the pavement.
Thankfully, we've got a few neat and handy tips and tricks on hand for you. So if you're a runner looking to protect yourself from any potential threats while you're practicing your hobby, read on!
Carrying Pepper Spray
One simple yet effective tool runners should consider carrying is pepper spray.
This chemical compound temporarily incapacitates attackers by causing severe irritation to the eyes and skin, allowing you time to escape or seek help if needed.
If possible, try and look for models specifically designed with runners in mind. Most come with a clip that attaches easily onto your belt loop or waistband, which is great for making sure they don't get in the way during your run.
Make sure to read up on any local laws regarding pepper spray before purchasing one though! Depending on where you are, some there are legal restrictions in place that put a pin on products like these.
Learning Defensive Moves
Knowing basic self-defense maneuvers is another great way to feel more confident when you're out on a run. It's time-consuming and requires a fair bit of diligence, but it's a better way to protect yourself from harm than most, especially if an attack should occur.
Many martial arts studios offer classes specifically tailored towards runner's self defense techniques, with some of the best examples being those like Krav Maga, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, muay Thai, and wrestling.
These sports will teach you key principles on awareness, tactics on de-escalation, how to block strikes, and how to counter with strikes of your own, especially to vulnerable areas.
Learning these defensive moves will not only help you build physical strength but also mental alertness, which are both essential components when trying to escape danger quickly and safely during your runs.
Using Protective Gear
In addition to learning self-defense tactics, wearing protective gear while running may also provide additional safety measures against potential threats.
For example, wearing bright colors will make you more visible at night time, and investing in reflective shoes or vests will increase your visibility even further. Using noise makers, like whistles, alerts, and the like, will help others be aware of your location in case anything untoward happens.
Sporting easy-access pockets will provide you with a way to quickly and conveniently retrieve items like keys and cellphones. You won't even feel them bouncing around during your run!
And last but not least, there are apps like Safe PathFinder that you can use, which will provide real time data on safe routes near popular jogging locations. It's not 100% foolproof, but it can still be greatly helpful when you're planning your runs.
Taking Runner Security Classes
You can try taking runner security classes too. They're typically offered in lots of cities all across America, like police departments or recreational centers.
In these classes, you can expect experienced instructors will provide interactive lessons that cover topics on as situational awareness, risk assessment, and defensive maneuvers.
Taking these kinds of courses will allow you to better deal with emergency situations in a very controlled environment. So once you're faced with the real thing, you'll be mentally prepared and will know exactly what to do.
Utilizing the Streetwise Runner Program
That leads us to the Streetwise Runner Program! It was created by the National Park Service, and it's another great resource available online.
It offers tons of educational materials, ranging from informative videos, articles, quizzes, and others, and it's all built on the premise of teaching joggers personal protection strategies.
If taking a runner security class isn't quite an option for you yet, then this is a great thing to check out!
If you sign up, expect to receive all manner of information about different types of risks associated with outdoor activities, along with step-by-step action plans showcasing what actions need be taken in order increase your chances survival under any given circumstances.
Conclusion
You should never feel unsafe when all you're trying to do is take care of your body or have fun with your hobby. But the world doesn't realize this sometimes, and you can't get rid of the risk of bad people who may want to take advantage of you.
Thankfully, so long as you follow these tips and keep them to heart, then the risk you face while going out on your runs should be greatly mitigated. It won't remove the threat entirely, but you can rest a lot easier knowing that you'll be much safer!
Pssst, remember how we said learning a martial art would be a good idea? If you're curious about what BJJ might be like, you can click here!
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