Bonking and Bears: More Cautions for Runners

Despite her disclaimer as being a non-runner, Lynne Marie Wanamaker wrote an excellent article about Self-Protection Strategies for Women Who Run. If you are a runner (man or woman), you might want to read it.

As we know, most crimes are not committed by strangers. Most crimes are committed by people we know. It is extremely rare that runners are attacked by strangers.

So, I'd like to share my thoughts (as a fitness trainer and a runner for 20 years) about some other cautions that both men and women can take for safer runs.

First, in my neighborhood, BEAR SEASON is upon us. No, not the dreaded grizzly bear. But the adorable, seemingly-lovable black bear. They are beautiful creatures, and in the Spring when they come out of hibernation, they are hungry!. They are herbivores who will not eat you, but they may perceive you as a threat to their food source. So, don't get between a bear and its food.

Also, Mama bears are protective of their cubs, so Never get near a mother bear or a cub! Even if you want to stop to watch a cute cub or take a picture, there may be a Mama bear right behind you, so Watch Out!

For the full article, "How to Prevent Running into a Bear", see
http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Prevent-Running-into-a-Bear&id=816108

Another caution: Bonking. If you have gone out for a run, only to realize you were a little hungry at the start, you might bonk during your run.
If you bonk, you can become weak and disoriented, making you vulnerable for an unsafe experience.
For the right Nutrition tips for runners, see my previous blog post on this topic.

Hydration is important. It is part of "nutrition". If you become dehydrated, you can get muscle cramps during your run. You can also have achey joints, excess fatigue, or disorientation. Dehydration can make you very vulnerable to accidents, so Drink Up throughout the day and before you run.
For more info on water's benefits toward Injury Recovery and Prevention, see my past blog post here at Wellness.com or visit the Higher Lifestyle blog.

For more articles, interviews, plus video on Pain Relief, Injury Recovery, and Healthy Lifestyles, visit the Higher Lifestyle blog at www.higher-lifestyle.blogspot.com

Keep Runnin'! Happy Trails!