Lifestyle

Wellness

Women and Whistles

by Michele Batz
Safety isn’t often the first thing on women’s minds when they go for a run. Yet according to a survey conducted by Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) 73 percent of female respondents reported that they had experienced a “frightening or uncomfortable incident” while running. This column serves to remind us that even though we love getting out in the fresh air to exercise, we must remain on guard and prepared.

There are no actions you can take that will guarantee your security. Still, experts agree that a little precaution and a lot of common sense will go a long way toward ensuring your safety on the run. You must learn to make good choices and judgment calls. Ultimately, those choices will depend on your own comfort level.

Personally, I am furious that anytime we, as women, step out our front doors, there is an unconscious notion that we have to be on the defensive. When we go out for our daily runs and walks we must be aware of our surroundings. When a car goes by us and someone whistles or honks the horn, how are we supposed to respond to it? If I look up and recognize the car and the person behind the wheel, you bet I give them the enthusiastic wave. But if it’s a car that I don’t recognize and a person that I have never seen before, my radar goes up.

When I bring up this subject to my family and friends, the response is usually, “someone is just trying to be friendly.” But are they? Or are they the men that lurk in the shadows to take away our freedom with one swift act of violence.

Too often we hear about women being attacked while they are working out in public spaces. Here are some safety tips are for all women that are reading this column (and for all the men who love them):

  1. Carry your cell phone on your waist band and have 911 on speed-dial, all you have to do is hit send.
  2. Carry a can of mace; this will hinder your attacker.
  3. Tell your family and friends which route you are taking and how long it will take you.
  4. If something doesn’t feel right in your gut, turn around and head back.
  5. Always call your local police departments regarding any suspicious activity from individuals that you encounter.
  6. Take in your surroundings, be aware and leave the headphones at home.
  7. Change your route. If you run or walk the same route day in and day out, you have developed a pattern and someone else may know your routine. Consider changing your route so no one can take advantage of this.


As the warmer seasons approach, keep these tips in mind when you move your workouts back outside. I would like to hear your opinions on this subject. Contact me at micheleb@poisemag.com.
Michele lives in the Chicago-land area and enjoys teaching physical education, working out, and writing fitness articles. She is working on completing her masters in holistic nutrition and moving on to get her Ph.D. You can reach her at micheleb@poisemag.com.