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Self-Protection Strategies for Women Who Run
by
mindbodymama
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 Stumble It!
Posted 5/15/2008 8:00:37 AM
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Running is not my sport. I may have two karate black belts, but I am definitely a white belt runner. No time is that more evident than the spring when I hit the streets again after a winter in the cardio room. But as a National Women’s Martial Arts Federation-certified self defense instructor, I do have a leg up on strategies for keeping safe when I run.
It’s not that running is an especially dangerous activity. “Stranger-danger” is highly overblown—most women are not attacked by a menacing stranger, but by someone known to her (often an intimate partner.) Still, running can put us into vulnerable situations. By thinking ahead we can make workout choices to further reduce the chance of assault. And all runners—male and female—can plan ahead to avoid and survive injury and accident.
Here’s my list of tips:
Be seen. Any time light is low—dawn, twilight, night, or inclement weather—reflective gear is de rigueur. This is one time that bilious phosphorescent yellow is a fashion “do.” You will be more visible to motor vehicles, and more memorable to neighborhood folks.
Keep in touch. If your running route is not within shouting distance of populated areas, carry a cell phone.
Be sure someone knows where you are. Tell friends and family your favorite running routes, which one you’ll be taking today, and when you should return. I was appalled to realize recently that my intimate partner—a confirmed couch potato—has absolutely no idea where I disappear to when I walk out the door with my Sauconys on. Now I leave a note with my itinerary on the dining room table.
Use your senses. I am astonished by the number of women runners I see with headphones on! Use your eyes, ears, nose and intuition to be aware of your surroundings. Sounds, shadows and smells can tell you about the people around you, their movements and intentions.
Be heard. If someone approaches you in a way that feels unsafe, use your strong voice and declarative statements—“That’s close enough” or “Tell me what you want.” If they don’t respect the limit you set or try to touch you, yell your fool head off. Don’t ever be afraid to make a scene in the service of keeping yourself safe.
Run. Always know where you are and where you can run for help. Save exploration of new trails for an afternoon hike with a group: when running alone be sure you can sprint to a house or busy road. (If you experience an unexpected injury you will be glad that you don’t have far to go to find help.)
Fight. It is my sincere wish for every woman reading this that you never have to fight an attacker. But if you do, I hope that you are able to fight him off and get away. Never give up! Go for the most vulnerable parts of his body: the eyes, nose, throat, and knees. Consider taking a self defense class to learn simple, effective fighting techniques.
Tell. If you are attacked seek help immediately for your physical and emotional well-being. It is never your fault that someone made the criminal choice to assault you. By telling someone you trust you can heal your body and mind, and you may be able to prevent an assault on another woman.
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About the Author
Lynne Marie
Wanamaker
View profile
Northampton,
MA
Interests: fitness & wellness, pre-natal and post-natal fitness, Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program, self defense, martial arts
View Professional Profile
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| This blog is written by an individual Wellness.com forum member and does not necessarily state the views of Wellness.com Incorporated or any of its affiliates. |
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