How many more joggers need to attacked, assaulted, abducted or die before we ‘get it’?

This is not the first time I’ve talked about how most assaults are preventable.  What saddens me is that there have been numerous news programs this week talking with personal safety “experts” who have recommended carrying a whistle and providing self defense instruction on what to do in the event of an attack.  Yet there has been no mention of avoiding an attack all together.  What about prevention and being on the offense instead of highlighting the defense?

Stories of joggers being attacked, raped and murdered are not new.  Almost every case resulted in a jogger who was out alone in an isolated area.

Even the Surgeon General warns us that cigarettes cause cancers, results in fetal injury and is dangerous to your health.  Do we need to have an official SG warning that jogging alone in isolated areas has been known to cause death?

Sure, we can introduce more legislation pertaining to the criminal justice system, and that very well may be needed.  But isn’t there an immediate, easily obtainable fix?  Do not jog alone and avoid isolated areas. Period.

It sure sounds simple enough.  Though the fact is there will continue to be outdoor activities, such as jogging or cycling, that enthusiasts will continue to engage in – alone.  If you’re choosing to do so – at least do all within your span of control to avoid becoming a victim.

Despite recent headlines, you’re still going to jog alone – aren’t you? So I might as well give you some crime avoidance tips:

The nature of these sports compels us to overtake uncleared space as we advance along the route, thus reducing needed reaction time should a threat occur. Unless you consider a bicycle pump or a size 8 running shoe as defensive tools, you rely heavily on the senses to alert you to dangers that may be encountered and to figure out a Plan B should the need arise.

It’s Got a Good Beat and It’s Easy to Jog To

Unfortunately, one scenario that can be seen time and time again is runners and cyclists wearing ear buds and keeping pace with the aid their iPod. If you ever what to signal “distracted and vulnerable” to an assailant, there is better way then by huffing and puffing while bobbing your head to the beat of Beyonce’s Single Ladies.

Chance are better than even that at some point you’ll step off a curb or ride directly in the path of some similarly distracted motorist who is listening to Rocky’s Theme Song, Gonna Fly Now. Not the type of meeting that leads to “Happily ever after.”

Dispense with the ear buds. Unless you’re running with a pack of Secret Service agents at your heels, you’re traveling much too lightly in most instances to defend yourself -  unless of course, you can outrun your attacker. Your senses need to be heightened and remain sharp.

It’s Better With a Buddy

Instead of jogging alone just please find a partner who enjoys the sport as much as you, someone you can rely on to keep an activity schedule that works for you. Together you can increase your degree of vigilance and reduce vulnerability. In addition, the time may prove to be more enjoyable if you find someone to share it with. Another benefit comes from the subtle competition that occurs between you and your partner and the discovery that she or he is wheezing just as hard as you are.  If you can’t find someone you’re either not looking hard enough or perhaps you should stay inside your home and jog on your Rebounder trampoline.

Don’t Take off Willy Nilly

Know the route and let others know it too. Drive as much of the route as possible beforehand becoming as familiar with it as possible. Look for blind spots, low lying or wooded areas. Also, remain alert for designated parking areas or rest spots along your route where vehicles may remain parked for periods of time without raising suspicions. These are danger points for joggers, hikers and others; particularly if traveling alone and on the fringes of populated areas. When you are able to describe to others the route from start to finish, you’ll have done your homework. Be sure to plan enough time for your outing that allows you a return to your safe area well before night falls. If you need to cut the run or ride short, then so be it or put it off for another day.

360 Degree of Awareness

During the outing, keep alert for others along your trail. If your route is one well-known and exclusive to runners, your sense of security should immediately heighten if you come into contact with anyone who does not fit the normal activity profile. Always maintain a 360 degree of awareness from start to finish.

If running alone don’t push yourself to the point of physical exhaustion. You’ll be physically less able to fend off an attacker if you are overtaxed and out of breath. And since you will be short-winded your ability to yell or scream for assistance will be at its limits also. For this reason, it is a good idea to have a whistle with you (yes, just like that little expert on TV was saying). Invest in one that uses a plastic or wood ball which can be found at most sporting good stores. Pair this with a detachable lanyard and you’ll be in business.

Lastly, I encourage you to cast off any mind set of “It won’t happen to me.” Be vigilant; be prudent; but don’t be so overconfident that you take off for a jog or bike ride with a naive sense of security. It’s difficult to be taken by surprise when you are well prepared while enjoying your favorite sport.

Be safe!

p.s. – Jogging alone: just don’t do it!