Keeping yourself and your home safe while you get fit
Minimize the safety risks of keeping fit by following these guidelines.
Taking care of our health is becoming more and more of an issue as the average waistline increases year by year. Outdoor activities such as road running, walking and cycling are great ways of getting fit as well as a way of enjoying the outdoors. Yet training outdoors does entail a few precautions to ensure that you stay safe while working off those extra pounds.
“Many runners or cyclists like to train in the early mornings or in the evenings and it is necessary to always be aware of what is happening around you, especially at this time of year when there are fewer daylight hours,” says Mike Kidson, managing director of ADT Northern region.
“The safety of your home and loved ones while you are out for a run is equally as important,” Kidson added. “Even if you will only be away for an hour, always arm the alarm system before you leave and check that you have properly locked the front door and gate behind you.”
Kidson added that there are a number of practical tips athletes can follow to ensure they are safe while training.
– Always let someone know when you are heading out and when you expect you will be back, if you do not return as scheduled, the alarm can be raised immediately.
– Ensure that your cell phone battery is fully charged before you leave home.
– Take along enough money to be able to make a phone call or to catch a taxi if necessary.
– Do not go out alone, invite a family member or friend along or join a running club.
– Wear bright reflective clothing so that motorists are able to see you easily.
– Vary your route often and avoid deserted areas.
– Do not listen to music while running; you may not hear an oncoming vehicle, a potential attacker or a vicious dog.
– Regardless of whether you train in the morning or evening, leave an outside light on if you expect you will return when it is dark.
Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 072 435 7717.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites:
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram.
- We have exciting news! We’re offering a free alert to help you always be in the loop. Send an email with the word ‘Subscribe’ to breakingnews@rekord.co.za to receive your free daily breaking news update.
