I had another post queued up but like most female runners I know, I’m thinking of the senseless murder of runner Eliza Fletcher. This Memphis teacher and mother of two was running early last Friday morning when she was kidnapped from her route. Her body was found earlier this week. The amount of victim shaming that I’ve seen is overwhelming. Many people said things like “She shouldn’t have been running in the dark by herself,” “She should have been wearing more than a sports bra and shorts,” or “she should have run with other people/later…” And on and on. How about “this man shouldn’t have randomly and senselessly attacked her!?”
This situation makes me feel helpless – especially because it seems like a random attack. That said, I’m sharing some safety tips from Krav Maga Worldwide that I’ve found useful. These may not be the be all/end, but they’re definitely helpful to keep in mind – especially for women.
5 Personal Safety Tips for Fall Running
- Don’t forget the basics. Remember to always wear reflective or bright colored gear. Avoid going out alone during early morning and late evening hours when it’s dark. Stay in well-lit areas that are near people/houses in case you need to yell for help. Run with other people instead of alone when possible. Tell a partner or friend where and when you are running – and turn off location finder on your cell phone/apps!
- Keep your guard up. It’s easy to fall into a comfortable routine on a daily run, but assailants can choose any day to attack. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and trust your intuition if something feels off. It also helps to mix up your routine and take different, but safe, routes sometimes. Also, don’t wear headphones, or if you do, keep the volume low or wear Aftershokz or a similar brand that enables you to hear what’s going on around you.
- Exude the right body language. Confident body language signals that you’re a tough target and can deter an attack before it begins. Hold a posture with your back straight and chin up. Keep a balanced stance and move with a sense of purpose. Make eye contact to show that you’re aware of who/what is around you.
- Use assertive verbal skills. If you feel threatened, use your voice with an assertive tone. Speak in short, clear, declarative statements. Volume can range from speaking firmly and clearly to yelling depending on the situation.
- Consider taking a class in self defense. Practicing how to fend off an attacker will help you feel empowered and confident. Training can give you the physical skills necessary to defend yourself against attacks. You can also improve your body language and verbal skills. If you can’t fit classes into your schedule or find them near you, Krav Maga Worldwide offers online courses that you can do at home.
For more information check out Krav Maga online, on Facebook or Instagram. I’ve taken a few Krav Maga self defense workshops here in Chicago and I’d like to get a group together to do another one soon!
What do you do to feel more confident and safer on the run?
I’m linking up with Darlene, Michelle, Renee, Jenn and Zenaida, for Fit Five Friday. Join us!
Have a great weekend!
PS. Don’t forget my great giveaways!
Please note: I was not compensated for this post. I think it’s helpful information to share!