The days are getting shorter, and the weather is getting colder. But that doesn't mean you have to hang up your running shoes. Cold weather running can be invigorating and even therapeutic.

Unfortunately, running outside can be a dangerous activity, especially for women. In fact, a recent study found that nearly 60% of female runners have been harassed while out on a run. That's why it's so important to be aware of your surroundings and take steps to ensure your safety while you run.

Here are 5 tips to help you stay safe on your next run:

Let Someone Know Where You Are Going

Before you head out for your run, make sure to let someone know where you're going and when you expect to be back. This way, they will know where to start looking for you if something happens.

You can also download a running app that tracks your route and sends an alert to your loved ones. In such cases, being able to share your real-time location can be a lifesaver. Moreover, wearing identification bracelets can also come in handy in an emergency, as they can help first responders locate you and easily identify your details.

Choose Well-Lit, Populated Routes

Whenever possible, stick to running routes that are well-lit and populated. Running in well-lit areas enables you to see any potential dangers ahead of time and also makes it easier for people to see you if they need to. If you must run in a less populated area, ensure that you alert someone of your whereabouts and make sure to bring your phone with you in case of an emergency.

Dress for Visibility

Wearing bright or reflective clothing is always a good idea, but it's especially important when running in low-light conditions. Choose clothes that will make you more visible to cars and other runners. You can also purchase reflective gear such as vests, armbands, and headbands to help you stand out. Additionally, obeying traffic laws is a must for all runners, whether you're running on the sidewalks, in the street, or on a trail. This means running in the direction of traffic and always yielding to cars and pedestrians.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

One of the best ways to stay safe while running is to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Pay attention to the people and cars around you, and trust your gut if something doesn't feel right. If you get a bad feeling about a certain area or person, trust your instincts and move away from the situation as quickly as possible. Also, if you must listen to music or some other audio while you run, keep the volume low so that you can still hear what's going on around you.

Be Prepared for the Worst

Although we hope we will never find ourselves in a dangerous situation, it's always best to be prepared for the worst. This is the same philosophy someone would take if going on hiking/camping trip.

In addition to carrying your ID and phone with you, consider investing in a personal safety device such as a rape whistle or pepper spray. These devices can help you attract attention and deter an attacker. Knowing how to use them properly is just as important as having them, so be sure to familiarize yourself with their operation before you go for a run.

Conclusion

By following these simple safety tips, you can help ensure that your next run is safe. Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry, so don't hesitate to take necessary precautions to keep yourself safe while you run.

Ultimately, for maximum safety, invest in A Landice treadmill for home use. This way, you can avoid running outside altogether! Check out our collection to find the perfect treadmill for your needs and budget.