Let's face it: as moms with busy schedules, we can't always run with running buddies. Quite often, we literally have to "run" out the door whenever we get a chance. The beauty of running [1] is that we can do it at anytime but, as women, we need to keep a few things in mind when running alone.
Here are the top 5 ways to stay safe when running on your own:
Always tell someone the route you’ll be taking, and approximately how long you’ll be running for. As much as possible, try to map out your runs in areas that are highly populated so you’ll see other runners/walkers along the way.
Whenever possible, aim to run during daylight hours. You’re better able to see the surface you’re running on, and you’ll generally see more people while out on your route. If you can only run early in the morning or late at night, aim to run in well-lit areas, and be sure to wear reflective clothing so that you can be seen by cars, bikes, and pedestrians.
If you are running regularly at the same time of day, and on the same days of the week, vary your route or distance so that your movements aren’t predictable. Aside from being a protective measure, variety keeps “route boredom” at bay.
In case of unexpected events, always carry with you some form of ID (running ID tags are great, or a health card will do), a $20 bill (for cab fare), and a few quarters (for a phone call). Of course, if you can run with a cellphone, it’s a better idea. That way, you don’t have to hunt down a payphone (they're becoming a rarity) if an emergency comes up.
Although music can be a good motivator while running, wearing headphones reduces your awareness of what’s going on around you. Even if the volume is low, your ability to hear vehicles, bikes, people, or animals is greatly impaired. You want all your senses available to you when you’re running alone.
By following these tips and, most importantly, following your instincts, you can lace up your shoes and head out the door safely and with confidence. Happy running!
Annabel is YMC's own Meditating Mummy [8]. But don’t think her life is all lotus petals and incense. From the moment she bolted tearfully out of her first mom and babe yoga class with hysterical infant in tow, Annabel recognized, with great irony, that one of her biggest challenges would be finding the “om” in mom. Now with two kids she is still searching for serenity.
Aside from being a yoga master (teaching yoga and Pilates all over town), Annabel’s a freelance writer and co-author of bittergirl [9] (the play, the book & the musical), a recreational runner, and of course she’s a doting Mum.
Join Annabel as she meditates on the joys and jolts of parenting - through sleep deprivation, snuggles, and tantrums - taking yoga off the mat and into motherhood one meltdown at a time. And with a few good laughs along the way.
You can also visit her at: w [10]ww.annabelfitzsimmons.com [11] or follow her on Twitter [12].