Ten Ways To Stay Safe Exercising Outside

Shorter daylight hours doesn’t mean that we can’t exercise outside. However, it does mean that we need to be a little more cautious. Feeling Safe is essential to feeling fit.  Whether you walk, run or cycle here are a few tips to stay safe. They are especially important when you either workout near traffic or in isolated parks.

The following is not intended as medical or professional advice. It is simply to share ideas and information to consider to inspire your research.

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Safety Tips To Help Stay Safe Exercising Outside

1. Be Aware Of Your Surroundings

One of the most important safety tips is to be conscious of your surroundings. Noise canceling headphones and earbuds are too immersive when you are active outside. AfterShokz is a perfect alternative since it does not block your ability to hear what happens around you. 

2. Carry ID and an emergency contact information

A friend was out for her morning walk when she happened upon a jogger who was passed out on the trail. She called 911 and used the jogger’s phone to call the jogger’s husband. It turned out the jogger had undiagnosed blood sugar issues, and my friend found her just in time to saved her life. I have a wristband that has my name and my emergency contact’s cell phone number on it, and I also have an emergency contact listed on the lock screen of my phone.

3. Wear clothing or accessories that enhance your visibility

Drivers need to see you if you are walking, running, or cycling near traffic. If it is dark or dusky, be sure to use some light. Otherwise, bright clothing or clothing with reflective elements all enhance your visibility. 

4. Educate Yourself On Self-Defense

Consider whether you feel comfortable carrying pepper spray or other self-defense tools
If you got this route, please get the training to know how to use appropriately use it. Your local police department is an excellent resource to learn about local training sessions and laws.

5. Don’t Exercise Alone (Even If You Don’t Have A Workout Buddy)

When possible exercise with a buddy or let someone know where you are going and check in when you return to your home or office. Many love the meditative effect of solo exercise. If that is you, be sure to choose safe, well-populated areas. Also, vary your route day-to-day and be sure to tell someone you trust where you are.

6. Be Aware & Obey Traffic Laws

Run or walk facing traffic, cycle with traffic. Obey traffic laws and avoid unpredictable behavior. Stay focused. Distracted walking, cycling, running or driving are among the biggest causes of accidents.

8. Stay Hydrated

Bring water to stay hydrated and a small snack in case you have blood sugar issues.

9. Pay attention to your instincts.

 If something does not feel right, it probably is not right. Never talk yourself into walking or running on a path where you feel nervous, frightened or wary. 

Most of these tips relate to mobile activities like walking, running, jogging, rollerblading, playing Pokemon Go and more.