Top 8 Run Safety Tips

A chill is in the air, the days are getting shorter, and many of us are logging more miles in the dark. While prioritizing safety is always important, being proactive is particularly critical when you’re out running at zero dark thirty.

With that in mind, here are eight tips for staying safe on the run, in no particular order. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but I hope these serve as a helpful reminder!

1. Share your intended route with someone you trust

This can be as simple as a text or leaving a note for your partner. There are also great digital tracking tools available now, including ShareMyRun, Garmin LiveTrack, and RunBuddy. Do what works best for you, but make sure someone knows where you are and when you expect to be back.

2. Be visible

A visibility vest is a great way to stay safe by making sure that cars can actually see you, as are brightly colored reflective clothing, light-up arm bands, and a headlamp. Along with this, try to run against the flow of traffic and use sidewalks whenever possible.

3. Vary your running routine

Don’t make your location at any given moment predictable for others, especially if you run alone. Switch routes, leave a few minutes earlier or later, or start from a new meeting point.

4. Find a buddy

Look, I get it. Some runners really prefer running alone, and sometimes it’s the only realistic option. But sharing miles with a friend or running group is a best practice for safety, so grab a buddy if and when you can.

5. Be alert & aware

Ideally, you’ll leave the headphones at home so you can hear what’s happening around you. If you’re going to listen to music or podcasts, keep the volume low and consider wearing open-ear headphones like Shokz.

6. Carry your cell phone

When it comes to awareness of your surroundings, unplugging is a good thing. But bringing your cell phone along provides a number of safety protections, from digital tracking to giving you the option to call for help in an emergency. If you’ve ever eaten pavement on a run and needed a ride home, you know this!

7. Do a hybrid run

If you hate running in the dark and have access to a treadmill, try a hybrid run! Maybe it’s still light out for 30 minutes after work, so you run the first few miles outside and finish up on the tread once the sun sets. I love this method for getting those outdoor endorphins and peace of mind.

8. Trust your gut

Last, but certainly not least, trust your gut instincts. If you ever feel unsafe, do whatever you need to either end the activity early, change your plans, or skip out entirely. No run is ever worth compromising your personal safety.

-Laura

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