Your mind stays focused on your body and the path ahead during a run. Unfortunately, there can be more than obstacles blocking your route or interrupting your exercise routine. There may come a time when threatened with harm from an animal or person, and you will require proper self-defense gear. Preparing beforehand will provide you with defense and security, things that will allow you to keep focused on your running mechanics and pace. Use the following tips and best self-defense gear for runners to stay safe and enjoy your run in peace.
Why You Need to Take Self-Defense Seriously
There are a variety of both domestic and wild animals that you could encounter on your path or trail. You are probably aware of the potential animal dangers on regular exercise routes, but an unexpected encounter can happen anywhere! An agitated or loose dog may perceive you as a potential target or threat and attempt to attack you. Carrying personal protection designed to repel canines, or fend them off as they attack, can help to prevent serious bites.
Animal Threats
Wild predators can be encountered on streets or in parks but are most often found along rural trails. While most wild animals will avoid contact with humans, surprise encounters can initiate an ambush or attack. Depending upon the size of the animal, a mauling could cause serious injury or even fatalities. Many sprays and audible repellents have been designed to end these encounters before they can escalate.
Human Threats
People can also pose a risk for runners. Bright or reflective colors can prevent injury when running in bad weather or low light. Drivers can only react to what they can see, so visibility alerts them to your presence. Most dangerous human encounters involve intentional attacks, however.
Audible alarms can scare off an attacker and alert others to the danger you are in. Sprays and shocking devices help to stop attacks by hampering the perpetrator. Finally, batons or edged blades can turn the table on an attacker. Stopping these unwanted encounters may prevent a mugging, rape, or worse.
