I got really into running when the pandemic originally hit last year. I’ve never been a runner but I ended up turning to it as some sort of escape and to get some fresh air. At first, I really had to push myself to strap up my shoes and get outside. I would get so tired and would have to push through my runs but now I truly look forward to going for a run.
You probably already know the many ways running can benefit you. From heart health, to weight loss, the reason we get into running varies for all of us.
For me, I turned to running when my anxiety hit full swing. It was a way for me to take a pause on the world, put some music on and just get lost in my run. It still helps me so much with my mental health and I encourage anyone that struggles with anxiety to consider going for a run.
While I live in a safe suburb area, I always want to make sure I am staying safe when I go out for my runs. Taking extra precautions is always a good idea and here are some of the ways you can stay safe when running outdoors.
Keep audio down
Always keep your headphones low so you can hear what is going on in our environment. I usually keep just one headphone on when I am running near a busy street. If not, I just keep my music low enough to hear everything in my surroundings.
Run against traffic
If you are running near a road, run on the opposite side of traffic. I always do this to avoid a car stopping and “creeping up” on me. You can always see what cars are coming your way and notice if any of them tend to slow down to stop, or swerve into your direction.
Run with a friend
Of course running with a friend is always the ideal situation. You can use the buddy system to look after each other. However, it’s unlikely you are going to have a buddy to run with all the time. Often time, your neighbors will go running at the same time every day. Be friendly with other runners, you’ll notice the same faces more and more if you stick to a similar time routine and you can create a sort of buddy system by doing so.
Set an emergency contact
Have your phone set-up with emergency contacts and easy ways to dial authorities if needed. Having them on speed dial for an emergency is important and critical in the case of an emergency. Also, always let someone know when and where you are going for a run.
Track your run
Not only does tracking your run keep track of your distance and time, it can also keep track of your location. I like to have my location setting turned on so my family can always track where I am running!
The last thing you want to worry about is predators and having to stay safe when you are going for a run, but it is important to keep these things in mind for your health and safety.
If you’re taking all the safety precautions necessary, you’ll truly be able to relax and enjoy your run to the fullest.
If you’re just getting started with running, I encourage you to stick to it because it can have so many benefits on your physical, mental and emotional health.
