Safety & Self-Defense While Running.

My absolute favourite time to go out running is on weekends. Not only do I get a much needed break from the kiddos, but the scenery is beautiful, the atmosphere tranquil and sweet and the birds chirping in the morning air brings the feeling of inspiration and new beginnings. 

While not much else could be better (besides waking up in an executive suite, kid-free, to the sound of the ocean surf and a morning margarita) there are some things that CAN be a lot worse! Like what? Stalkers, attackers, criminals and hallucinogenic vagrants!

We don't usually like to think about these sorts of stuff but we see and hear all too often about people who have been faced with these life-or-death situations. Instead of procrastinating or trying to brush it under the covers, let's just jump right into what you/we should be doing at all times to help ourselves stay safe ABAP while out for a good workout. (As best as is possible)

• First and foremost - PRAY, recite the 23rd Psalm and move with an attitude of confidence and optimism. 

Carry ID. Order a cute runner’s ID with your blood type and an inspirational quote — or just push your old driver’s license into your pocket. Either ensures that rescuers can locate loved ones if you are injured.

Think: Women have excellent intuition. As a result, it is important to give yourself every opportunity to notice through sight, smell and sound what is around you. If you have an uneasy feeling running in a certain location, trust your senses and steer clear immediately. This is true for all self-defense situations. Women avoid potentially life-threatening situations every day by trusting their gut.

Be heard. If someone approaches you in a way that feels unsafe, use your strong voice and declarative statements: “That’s close enough,” or “Tell me what you want.” If they try to touch you or don’t respect the limit you set, yell your fool-head off. Don’t be afraid to make a scene in the service of keeping yourself safe.

Run. Always know where you are and where you can run for help. Save exploration of new trails for an afternoon hike with a group. When running alone, be sure you can sprint to a house or busy road. (If you experience an unexpected injury you will be glad that you don’t have far to go to find help.)

Fight. It is my sincere wish for every woman reading this that you never have to fight an attacker. But if you do, go for the most vulnerable parts of his body: the eyes, nose, throat, and knees. Consider taking a self-defense class to learn simple, effective fighting techniques.

Tell. If you are attacked, seek help immediately for your physical and emotional well-being. It is never your fault that someone made the criminal choice to assault you. By alerting someone you trust, you can heal your body and mind and you may be able to prevent an assault on another woman.

• Be aware, not beware, of your surroundings: Run in a familiar location where you will be able to find help quickly.

• Leave an Itinerary: Make sure your family or friends know where you are running and when you expect to return. Bring a cell phone in case you need to call for help or to let family or friends know you'll be running late.

• Be Visible: It is important to be aware of the people around you. It is also important for people to be aware of you. Wear reflective gear that makes you recognizable and memorable so the people you pass on the running path register that they saw you.

• Use All Your Senses: Most people enjoy running while listening to their iPod. However, you shouldn't sacrifice one of your senses, especially if you are running in an isolated area.

A few things that can also help are: 

Cellphone - call 911!

Pepper Spray

Pocket Knife

Large Dog

Taser

 or these guys called claws...

meant to be

worn like this: 

SELF-DEFENSE MOVES:

If you can't get away, here are some tips on how to physically protect yourself:

Be verbal: If the predator is approaching, yell and scream and draw attention to yourself and the situation.

Get physical: If the predator gets in your space, know the primary targets: eyes, nose, throat and groin.

The hammer fist: One hand is out in front pushing the attacker, while you strike down on his face, shoulder or side like a hammer with your other hand made into a fist. 

The heal palm strike: Use the heal palm of your hand to strike the nose in an upward motion.

The face mash: With your hand as a claw, strike the face of the attacker while using your nails to scratch at the eyes and face.

The chin jab: Touch your forearms together, heal palms together and push upwards into the chin and neck, breaking the attacker's hold on you. This works well if you are shorter than the attacker.

A-frame kick: Your leg is a powerful weapon as you kick the groin area of the attacker.

OTHER TIPS:

To keep yourself from becoming a victim:

Listen: Use only one headphone.

Look: Notice who is around you.

Demeanor: Act confident, and look people in the eye as you pass them.

Plan: Avoid running alone, in the dark or in secluded areas.

Run: If you can escape, get away as fast as you can.