Jogging can be a gratifying physical activity — it’s an easy, cheap, and convenient way to get in shape (or stay fit) and is also great for de-stressing after a tiresome day at work or school. However, jogging also has its fair share of risks (and we’re not just talking about injuries from tripping). There’s the risk of getting attacked or targeted by criminals. But, arguably, the most significant risk comes in the form of wheels and engines.
More than 6000 pedestrians get killed by vehicles each year in the US, and around 129,000 pedestrians are rushed to emergency departments due to crash-related injuries. You definitely wouldn’t want to be part of these horrible statistics.
If you do end up getting injured by a vehicle when jogging, make sure to ask assistance from an experienced personal injury lawyer in West Jordan, Utah, so your medical bills can be covered and be compensated appropriately for damages.
As such, we’ll be taking a look at essential safety tips that every jogger should follow.
#1 Always Face Traffic
When jogging, it’s not enough for you to be alert and keep a lookout for cars. It’s best to always face towards INCOMING traffic when you jog. This way, you can easily avoid any drunk drivers, and give yourself enough time to get out of the way.
#2 Wear Bright or Reflective Clothing
This is very important, especially when you’re jogging at night. And, speaking of jogging at night, you should also consider wearing gear with lights such as LED armbands or belts.
#3 Pick a Safe Time and Route to Jog
As a rule of thumb, you shouldn’t jog at night; jogging at night increases the risk of you getting hit by a sleepy or drunk driver, or being targeted by criminals due to having fewer people and less visibility. If it can’t be helped, and your busy schedule can only allow you to jog at night, at least pick a route that has heavy traffic or more people (i.e., more witnesses in case of a crime) and is well-lit. High traffic and visibility can help deter criminals, and it’s also an advantage in case you get injured or get into an accident as there’d be people around to help you. Alternatively, you can try jogging at a nearby stadium, if there’s one in your area.
Have Alternate Routes. As a follow-up tip of sorts, you must change things up once in a while. Your jogging schedule and venue should vary in seemingly-random order. This is to ‘throw off’ any criminals that may have been observing your routine and makes you harder to track.
#4 Bring a Companion
One of the best ways you can stay safe while jogging is by bringing a friend along. For one, criminals are less likely to attack or target those who aren’t alone. And this also means that there’s someone to help you out if you get injured when jogging. Alternatively, you can also bring your dog along with you during your jogging session, or join a local jogging group.
#5 Leave Your Earphones at Home
Jogging (or doing any exercise) with music helps motivate you while you work up a sweat, but they can also make you less aware of your surroundings and put yourself at risk. If you need music when jogging, it’s best to do so in a place that’s safe (like a stadium or busy park), or when you’re in a jogging group, or at least only have one earbud in place so your other ear can still listen to your surroundings.
Conclusion
There’s no doubt that jogging can be very beneficial to one’s health, but it’s essential not to neglect your safety and be always be wary of hazards and threats when you jog. So make sure that you follow these fundamental (and potentially life-saving) safety tips when you jog, so you can stay safe while you stay fit!
