Now that it’s getting darker earlier and the leaves are falling, going for a jog isn’t necessarily as safe as it was in the middle of the summer. There are more cars on the road, as people are less inclined to walk in the cooler temperatures, and it’s getting dark earlier, which makes it increasingly difficult for you to be seen.
So it’s important that you read the safety tips below to ensure your jog is healthy and safe!
1. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Whether you’ve been out jogging for years or you’re starting a new exercise plan, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and realize that every time you go for a jog outside, you’re at risk. There are a number of safety precautions you can take to reduce the risk of injury, especially during the fall season when roads are little slicker and busier.
Be sure you keep an eye out for traffic and ice, and if you happen to be jogging with headphones, keep the volume of your music to a lower level so you can hear any potential dangers.
You also want to be able to see what’s coming at you, so running against traffic is highly recommended, even when you’re on the sidewalk. And please, remember to look both ways before crossing every intersection, whether it has a set of traffic lights or not.
2. Tell Someone Where You’re Going
Before heading out, the first thing you want to do—and it may seem insignificant—is tell somebody you’re going out for a run. If you live with a partner, parent, or child, just give them a head’s up that you’ll be out jogging for the next 40 minutes or so. If there’s no one at home, call or text a friend or family member. It’s even better if you can tell them the route you’ll be taking on your jog.
3. Keep ID on You
It’s important to wear clothing with pockets so you can bring a piece of identification with you. Carrying your driver’s license—or another form of identification—is good to have in case something happens to you. You’re simply preparing for the worst with this one, and hopefully you never have it removed from your pocket while out on your run. However, if you are struck by a vehicle or fall and injure yourself, the medical staff assisting you will know who you are. Consider taking a piece of paper with contact information for a family member or friend in case someone needs to be contacted in an emergency.
Must Read: ” The Benefits of Jogging ”
4. Imagine Nobody Can See You
When you’re going out for a jog, you want to imagine that nobody can see you. Therefore, wear bright, reflective clothing or apply reflective straps to the clothes you have on, so you’re more visible, especially to drivers. Certainly don’t go jogging in the dark with black clothing on or other dark colors without reflective patches. Because of the potential leaves and ice on the road and the wet conditions, you want to give drivers the best opportunity to spot you early if you happen to fall into traffic.
5. Again, Keep Your Music on Low!
I like listening to music when I jog. It helps me pass the time and take my mind off the fact that I am jogging! Needless to say, I look at it as a necessary evil. But if you decide to listen to music, be smart about it. Listen at a low volume and if you happen to be using earbud headphones, only use one earbud so you can hear cars, sirens, bicycles, and other potential hazards approaching.
Two of my favorite times to run are early in the morning and late at night. I like it because there is virtually nobody on the sidewalks and very little traffic. But because most of the population is either indoors or in bed at these times, it means the people who are out travelling might be a little less attentive to their surroundings.
Therefore, it’s your responsibility to protect yourself from drivers that might roll through stop signs or make other errors because they aren’t fully awake or aren’t anticipating pedestrians being out and about at that time!
Running is great for your body and one of the best ways to stay healthy. But it can be dangerous, and being aware of external factors is the best way to get the most out of your morning or evening job. Have fun, be fit, and stay safe!