The Caveman’s Guide to Safe Running
I’ve been watchin’ too much Criminal Minds lately and decided that I need to write ‘bout keepin’ safe on yer run. Seriously though, five hours straight of Criminal Minds = caveman has bad dreams.
Seems that more and more people are saying, “Wait I can exercise without a gym membership and be outside at the same time?” Recently, I saw that they’re even making those “natural running shoes”. Ol’ Scratch has those; I call ‘em feet. Runnin’ is gainin’ a popularity I haven’t seen since the Running of the Triceratops. Runnin’ Safety isn’t just makin’ sure ya stretch before and after. It’s also makin’ sure you get back to yer cave ok. So, this is for those of ya who pound the pavement.
Scratch’s Running Safety Tips
- The Buddy System
You can do this two ways:
- Tell someone your route so they know when and where to look for you. There are also apps for smart phones such as RunKeeper Elite and Google Latitude that let your friends track your location.
- Run with a buddy. A second person makes an attacker think twice. If you are attacked though just remember: you don’t have to outrun your attacker, just yer friend.
- A Dog
A dog is great deterrent to an attack. Some breeds are just meant for runnin’ like the Siberian husky, but some breeds make better runnin’ parters than others. Dog with short noses such as pugs and bulldogs would not make good partners as they can’t breath as well as other dogs. Dogs also can’t deal with heat as well as people so be careful with a long-haired dog in the heat. Runner’s World has this great article about which breeds might work for your style of runnin’.
If you can’t get your own dog, see if you can borrow a neighbor’s. Some people would pay for ya to wear out their high-energy mutt.
- Safe Locations
Before you run, sit down and map out your route. Stick to well-lit neighborhoods as much as possible. Also look for 24-hour locations like a supermarket, hospital, or police station. Make yourself know to the people there.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Now I like my iPhone as much as the next caveman, but you need to keep your wits about you and listen to your instincts. If you crank up your favorite band, you won’t hear what’s going on around you.
- A Note About Weapons
In a recent online discussion, a woman said she would run with a small knife. Now Scratch would not recommend that. Without proper trainin’, you’re much more likely to stab yourself than your opponent. Also, if you don’t have fight trainin’, that weapon could easily be used on you by your attacker. If you insist on carrying a weapon, make sure to check your state’s concealed carry laws.
To my cavemen and cave-ladies out there, please stay safe and don’t take unnecessary risk while runnin’. If ya have any other tips, please leave them in the comments below.