Can Running Put You in Danger?

     Is running an activity that can put you at risk?  I don't mean the risk that comes from strained muscles, sprained ligaments, overheating, dehydration, or cardiovascular emergencies. I am referring to the type of danger that comes from ominous external threats. The recent bombing at the Boston Marathon showed that runners can be targets for violence.
   Realistically, the chances of being present for a bombing are thankfully slim. However there are other potential threats out there such as:

• Dogs! Bony legs and moving human bodies can often bring out the beast in even the most peaceful pooch. 
• Other wildlife! I have run into bears while running on mountain trails. Fortunately the bear always took off one way while I ran the other way. Cougars, although elusive, can be especially dangerous predators. Coyotes used to be bashful around humans. In Eastern Canada they have been breeding with dogs and the offspring are larger and more aggressive. Hikers have been attacked and even killed! Take precautions in the wilderness. Think about carrying bells, pepper spray or doing your running in a group!
• Idiot drivers! These fools like to yell obscenities at distance runners. Usually this is the extent of the threat but in extreme cases they will throw projectiles, such as beer cans, at the runners. There is also the danger of the car veering towards the runner -often on purpose.
• Drunk and impaired drivers!  Run defensively and steer clear. Never assume your right of way is sacred when crossing intersections.
• Sexual predators! For women runners especially, this is a threat that is always hauntingly present. One of my track coaches would not let his women athletes run the trails or roads alone under his watch. It shouldn't be this way but it is better to play it on the safe side. 
• Drunks and hooligans! Fortunately, this is a rare occurrence but the potential is there for runners to come across these types of trouble making thugs in downtown areas or even in public parks. Usually you can outrun them if they are drunk or stoned but they are best steered well clear of. I used to go running at night through the cheating side of town just for the adrenaline rush. I called it the riffraff run!  In retrospect, with age and wisdom, it doesn't seem like a very smart idea.

   What are some ways of keeping the risks minimal?

•  Run with a group. Groups provide a certain amount of safety.
• Be aware of your surroundings. I have never been a fan of running with ear pods for listening to music. It takes the crucial sense of hearing out of the equation.
• Avoid risky surroundings such as dark alleys, secluded trails, or any areas far from help.
• Trust your instincts! If your spider sense are tingling, change your route.
• There is always the option to carry bells, or defensive sprays to deter animals or thugs.
• Carry a cell phone if you are running in areas of concern,
• Develop an extra running gear, just in case.

   The implications for Fitness Trainers are obvious. Don't send a client out on a run alone under your watch! Send them out with a group. Run or bike along with them. If those options aren't possible, use a treadmill and keep them inside. The client is under your care for that allotted period of time!
If something happens, the Fitness Trainer could be liable!    

Other than the bear encounters, I have had few bad experiences while out running. Chances are, you will not either. Runners rarely carry purses or wallets with them so robbers will usually get a paltry haul. I suppose state of the art shoes or a designer running suit could be coveted by undesirables. Just being a runner can sometimes make you a target for some brainless neanderthal oafs.  However, always think safety first. Be smart! Don't put yourself in a position where physical harm can happen to you!

Be smart! Be Alert! Be cautious!
Running through a dark alley in a bad part of town - not recommended!
(Especially with a pink t-shirt and tights.)

Until next time,....keep fit!

Little Bobby Strong

schwabe27.uwmfatloss.hop.clickbank.net

Wild animals can be problematic.
Pepper spray and bells won't help in this situation!
Don't neglect your speed intervals!