Tips of Worry-Free Running

By Lisa Felder

Regardless of the conditions, always take the time to remember the basic rules of safe walking.

• Walk with a partner whenever possible.

• Walk facing traffic. Pay attention to passing cars and be ready to literally jump out of the way, if necessary

• Know the area where you walk. Be aware of any suspicious cars or people who could be tracking you. Leave yourself an escape route, if possible. Avoid isolated dead ends.

• Don’t follow the same predictable pattern when you walk. I like to vary my routes day-to-day and week-to-week.

• Avoid walking along at night or in the morning darkness.

• Don’t count on outrunning a pursuer.

• Wear reflective gear or bright colors so that passing cars as well as bicyclists can see you.

• Let someone know where you are going and how long it should take you. I especially make sure to do this if I am not feeling particularly well. Also, like any outing, it is appropriate to let your babysitter know where you are going so you can be tracked down if necessary.

• In addition to your personal safety, don’t forget about home security. If you are leaving the house unoccupied, make sure to lock up.

WALKING AWAY FROM HOME

When I’m away from home, I try to find a running partner, I stretch in the lobby of my hotel until someone eventually comes down to run, and I either join them or get advice from the hotel staff on where to run. Sometimes when I’m passing a runner in a unfamiliar area, I’ll ask if I can tag along for company.

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