Running Options for Outdoor Running?

[Anonymous]

I love running outdoors but recently I have been getting really nervous about running around my area because I'm becoming paranoid that something bad will happen. I don't want to be running near roads anymore so I was wondering if there were any other options for outdoor running. I really don't want to give this up and stick to a treadmill because it's not my thing but it looks like this is what I'm going to have to do. There are no outdoor tracks or parks nearby and I can't seem to find any running partners so those are out of the picture.

[NotJustAnotherGuy]

Easy. Bring a cell phone. If a vehicle stops near you, put your cell phone up to your ear.. if a man starts approaching confidently speak into the phone "Yes, 911?" and start reading off his licence plate. I'm pretty sure he isn't going to take a chance at you then. If you're really so scared, which you shouldn't be, then you can run back and forth passed your house (always staying within a mile or two). Or run through town mid-day where there is an audience of people who can see you.

[Asker]

Good tip! I'm sure that would scare off pretty much anybody around here!

[TKDKidd]

Bring a whistle with you, when running outdoors also be sure to have something reflective on you and be sure to have any medical ID that is required if you have any conditions.

[Asker]

Those are great tips. I haven't thought of carrying a whistle. For self protection I carry a pocketknife but those are only good at close ranges so with everyone having guns nowadays I doubt that would do much good. Do you have any suggestions for self protection? Something that isn't bulky so I don't throw off my gait?

[TKDKidd]

I don't know what the laws are for your area, but if you are able to do so, I might suggest trying something like mace, but to be honest, this may cause a false sense of protection. My suggestion is use your wits, teeth, feet and voice, though if you are in low-population areas, the pepper spray might help BUT BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR LOCAL LAWS.

[Asker]

Mace? Isn't that like a club-like weapon? lol, that might be a little hard to conceal and it is also at close range but thanks for the suggestion. I think I wil get some pepper spray that like sprays a long distance and learn how to use it. I'll be sure to check out my laws and thank you for your help! :)

[TKDKidd]

Yes, pepper spray is some times called mace. lol

[Asker]

Ohh, lol. I was thinking you were talking about those medieval mace things and that made me laugh to think of carrying that. I think I shall get some pepper spray then. :)

[Shazam]

Hmm. Maybe you can travel to a park to run? Even if its further. Or run around the block, sidewalk all the way. You can stop at busy streets to check and be careful when crossing. If you're scared of creepy people, you can outrun them? Things can happen, but you should try not to let that stop you from doing what you want. You can run in the early morning or at times when it's not that busy. :)

[Asker]

Thanks for the encouragement, ha I guess with all those stories in the news about runners getting kidnapped I'm getting pretty paranoid. There is a park near me but it's like a 30 minute drive so I wouldn't be able to run too often. I live in the country so there are no sidewalks but I will try it out in the morning. I'm even more scared because I live in an really isolated area so if someone does decide to kidnap me no one around will hear or see.

[Shazam]

Running in the country is nice. I don't know your area, so I guess I was a little naive. But, bad things happen a lot. I guess its normal to feel more paranoid if you hear stories. You can listen to music at a low volume to distract you.

[Asker]

I didn't elaborate so you helped like you could. I guess I could do that, music usually relaxes me so that might help. Thank you. :)

[sweatgirl]

find a park and start running on the trails of the park and bring your cell phone. Also the buddy system works if you could find someone who will run at your speed.

[Longshot]

Run outdoors if you can, it's more intense than the treadmill and there are many precautions you can take for outdoor running. Any running store can sell you reflectors and bunches of other stuff. Most police depts will tell you what to take with you.

I walk everyday and though I am not concerned about being attacked by someone, I am concerned about outrageous drivers. I walk against traffic so I can see what's coming. I wear light colored clothing and I stay alert and aware.

[Asker]

I think I'm going to check that out. There is a couple running stores nearby so I'll ask around. I also go against traffic because people on my roads drive super fast and all over the road so I would be squashed by now if I didn't. Hmm, light clothes is also great, I tend to stick to darker clothes like black, purple, and blue so I think I'm going to have to change that around so I will be more visible. Thanks for the suggestions! :)

[Anonymous]

Go down to your local running/biking store REI.. etc . and ask them about weekly group runs.