Solo workout safety

McFuzz - 2009-08-04 1:53 PM

No, I don't carry anything like that, but I do let someone know where I'm going and when I expect to be back.  I'm more worried that I'll hurt myself (bike crash, twisted ankle, etc.) rather than someone will hurt me (which, as a male, is my biggest concern). 

I figure for running, I'm usually aware of what is around me and run at times/places I shouldn't be bothered.  I also figure I can outrun someone who is threatening me.  I found the flaw in this strategy when I was riding up a hill on my bike and a farm dog came out into the road...I realized I couldn't outride the dog (but he stopped)...

Gaarryy - 2009-08-04 1:07 PM I used to run with my dog, just not in the summers,  for running at least it did give me a sense of extra security since he is a larger dog.

I either run very late at night (11pm) or early in the morning... Luckily I do live in a safe area away from the main roads, so you don't get a lot of traffic unless people live there... In the summers it's usually the teenagers sitting out on the front lawns that are the only people I see and occasionally worry about,,, Usually all i get is a whistle, hello, or smart remark.  It's the times that they dont' say anything that get me a touch worried..   A couple of times I've felt a bit nervous and I've just stopped and picked up a large rock to hold in my hand, once the group saw that they became much friendlier.

There was reports on the trails in the Dallas area where it was the men getting robbed of iPod's and watches, the police thought it was because women usually are on the lookout more, while us guys think that by just being a guy we are immune

eabeam - 2009-08-04 5:46 PM No, but I have been considering getting the civilian taser.

irondreams - 2009-08-04 10:38 AM

I just went to a self defense class sponsored through my office.  Typical information shared, e.g., 90% of defense is awareness. 

The other 10% though got me thinking, what would I actually do if someone approached me on a solo ride or run.  I try to be very aware of my surroundings (looking for my out if I need help), but let’s face it, that might not cut it.  So, do any of you carry anything with you (mace, pepper spray, knife, etc)?

Puppetmaster - 2009-08-05 2:28 AM

At the risk of sounding oh stupid being a women increases your chances of being a victim.  If you are concerned, depending on were you  live, carry something.  Bear spray is very strong and will bring most punkA$$ down.

I mean what is a few bucks and a few ounces for your piece of mind.