A Guide To Being Safe When Exercising Outdoors

I love to jog, but I can't stand treadmills. In fact, I can't stand gyms at all. It just seems so silly to run in the same space, staring at a wall or a television or even other people working out. Awkward! I understand the comfort issue of air conditioning and technology but I think when you workout you should sweat. You should go somewhere! There is a downside to jogging or exercising outdoors though. You have to watch your back. These days it is easy to get mugged or harmed or even worse. You do not have to live in fear, but it is important to be cautious.

Here are some tips on how to be safe while on your next jog at the park.

Always tell someone where you are going and when you will be back. If no one knows where you are or how long you intend to be out it will be harder to find you if you are abducted. Try to tell them where you plan on parking your car and that you will call them and let them know when you are done jogging.

Carry a cell phone at all times. Even in numbers it is important for someone to have a charged phone in their hands. Have 9-1-1 on speed dial as well as an ICE number (In Case of Emergency). If you get sick and pass out or have been attacked someone can dial your emergency contact for you.

Stay alert to what is going on around you. This is a tough rule to follow for me because I love listening to music while I jog but do not listen to headphones. If you are oblivious to what is going on around you, you become an easy target for predators.

Do not carry anything valuable with you. This includes credit or check cards, your license, jewelry, ipods, etc. If you need to carry a little bit of cash for a post-jog beverage, carry only a few dollars in your shoe or pocket.

Make your outdoor exercise social. Jog with a friend or take your dog with you. Avoid areas where no one would notice if you were abducted. Abide by the idea of safety in numbers. It is less likely for you to encounter a predator if you are at a busy park or with a group of friends. While discovering new trails might be fun, reserve those adventures for jogs or hikes with a group of people. Well lit, popular spots are your best bet.

Carry some protection. You can purchase pepper spray that can be strapped to your hand easily. Keeping it in your pocket will be useless so carry it in your hand even without the strap. If you are a frequent jogger consider becoming a dog owner. Man's best friend will motivate you to continue to exercise and give you a sense of safety when you are with it. We have a 100 lb. shepherd mix and no one messes with us on the track!

Do not dress attractively. That doesn't mean you have to dress dumpy but don't go jogging in hot pants and a sports bra by yourself. While there is nothing wrong with looking sexy, this makes you a more likely candidate for an attack by drawing attention to you. This is the kind of attention you don't want or need!

These are definitely things to consider if you are an outdoor exercise enthusiast. With just a few extra steps, you can enjoy your jog through the park and feel a little safer while doing it.