NWR: Question for girls who go out running...

peaches85

This is probably going to make me sound paranoid and neurotic, but I have to ask.

I try to go out running whenever I can, but over the past year or so I started getting really scared when I run so I've been avoiding going out lately.  Nothing has happened to me or to anyone in the area (that I know of) and I go running in a pretty safe area, but I just have a constant nagging feeling whenever I run that I should have something with me for protection.

For awhile I was running with a little bottle of pepper spray, but I hate holding things in my hand and I don't wear things with pockets when I run.  I've also thought about keeping my cell phone with me, but I have the same issues that I had with the pepper spray.

So, does anyone have any suggestions about something that I could have with me at all times when I run that would give me a bit of comfort and/or protection, but that I wouldn't have to physically hold? 

Am I the only one who get nervous during a run?

For the record, I always tell someone where I'm running and about how long I'll be and I always go when the sun is still out.  Also, I'm not a fan of treadmills or running indoors, so that's why I insist on running outside.

gymchick05

I tend to run on the treadmil since there are limited sidewalks by me, but I would love to be outside more. When I used to run outside I took one of those keychain things I have from college that are meant to be worn around your neck. I would put my keys and mace on this and wear it under my shirt so it didnt bounce around.  You can also get one of the arm bands that are meant for holding your Ipod and put a cell phone in that so you dont have to hold it. Another option, althought it is a bit more bulky, is a tight fitting fanny pack that you can put pepper spray, a phone, and anything else in. There is some new product- I have to look around and see if I can find the name, but it was build for carrying stuff when you workout and more lightweight material so it wouldnt feel heavy or cause you to sweat more, etc. You could also always put mace in your sports bra haha.

raangoli

They have this sort of fanny pack thing called a SPI belt that you could wear around your waist to carry your phone and/or your pepper spray.

For the most part, I go running in a local park. Where I live is seriously congested and there aren't any paths or sidewalks to run on.

I also do what you do, let someone know I am going out, where to, and how many miles I plan on running (so they can figure out how long I will be gone)

Finally, I wear something called the Road ID that is a bracelet that lists my name, emergency contacts and their phone numbers just in case anything happens. I know that's not really what you're worried about, but I think it's a good thing to have anyway.

kristen8040

I have a running belt that can hold nutrition, cell phone, keys etc.  You can get them at a specialized running store by you. (sports authority, diicks, etc., don't carry them usually)

Another option might be to join a local running club or many running stores have weekly runs out of them.  It's safe to run in a large group, you can meet other people, and it's nice to have runners that can push your pace.

tparty10

I would say try to find a running partner. I know this is easier said than done - but there is safety in numbers.

tbrose16

If I don't have my cell phone with me, I feel the same way.  It took me forever to find a pair of shorts and pants that have a zippered pocket big enough to carry my cell phone, id, credit card, and keys, and not be bulky and bounce around, but i finally found the perfect shorts. They are sugoi and the style is "Jackie". They come in shorts, capris, and pants - I have multiple pairs of all three. lol They are the spandex material and they had a zipper in the back (right above your butt) and b/c its a fitted short, you stuff doesn't bounce around. Honestly, I love them. I get them from running warehouse.com but i'm sure you can find them somewhere else too. this is a link ->  http://www.runningwarehouse.com/descpageWRA-SWJAKSH.html

Also, when i do longer runs, I like to take the bus into the city and go to central park.  There are tons of runners so I feel very safe (I keep on the big road around the park and do not go into the little trails) and it is very motivating seeing everyone run.

HTH!