Women urged to put safety first during outdoor workouts
Security awareness is being highlighted alongside fitness goals as more people return to outdoor exercise.
As warmer weather draws more people outdoors to run, walk, cycle and exercise, women are being urged to take practical safety precautions while pursuing their fitness goals.
Recent incidents involving attacks on women have again highlighted the risks faced by those exercising outdoors, particularly when using isolated routes or training alone. While these incidents should not discourage people from staying active, they serve as a reminder that personal safety should form part of any outdoor exercise routine.
“Getting active and looking after your health is something we should encourage, but safety needs to be part of that routine,” says Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity Services Group.
“For women in particular, being aware of your environment, choosing your route carefully and making sure someone knows where you are can make a meaningful difference.”
Safety tips for training outdoors
• Choose your route carefully: Opt for familiar, well-used routes with good visibility rather than isolated paths, quiet streets or areas with limited escape options. Where possible, choose routes where there is a visible security presence and other people around.
• Train with a partner: There is safety in numbers. Consider joining a running or walking group, exercising with a friend, or choosing areas where other people are active.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: Avoid becoming distracted by your phone or music while exercising. If you use headphones, keep the volume low enough to hear what is happening around you, or consider using just one earphone.
• Tell someone where you are going: Before heading out, let a family member or friend know your planned route and approximate return time. For longer or unfamiliar routes, consider sharing your live location with someone you trust.
• Keep your phone accessible: Carry a fully charged phone in case of an emergency but avoid displaying it unnecessarily while exercising.
• Consider an added layer of protection: A mobile panic button can provide an additional layer of security when exercising or travelling alone. Fidelity SecureMe and SecureMe Plus provide users with access to emergency assistance when they need it, offering added peace of mind when they are away from home.
• Avoid predictable routines: If you exercise outdoors regularly, consider changing your route, starting point or training times occasionally. A predictable routine can make it easier for someone to know where you are likely to be.
• Train while the sun is out: Early morning and evening workouts may be tempting during the warmer months, but visibility is an important part of personal safety. Where possible, exercise during daylight and avoid isolated areas after dark.
“Your workout should never come at the expense of your personal safety,” says Hattingh.
“Plan your route, stay aware and make use of the people and security resources around you. Being prepared doesn’t mean being fearful – it means giving yourself the best chance of enjoying your exercise safely.”
