The Guy with the Chainsaw

[CoolBlackChick]

I get bored with exercise VERY easily.

Last summer, I jogged a little on paved tracks. I did not have the appropriate shoes (not by a long shot!) coupled with a history of knee, leg, and back problems. This made for a workout that was a bit lacking. I'm proud of myself for doing it, though!

For a few years now, I've toyed with the idea of trail running / hiking. I love to be in seclusion with nature. That solitude is what really draws me to these two sports.

To all you runners/walkers/hikers/etc. out there: what do you do to stay safe on your outings? When I say safe, I mean safe from crime? Do you carry a weapon? Pepper spray? A stick?

Maybe I have just seen too many movies about the lone runner/hiker and the guy with the chainsaw.

[lawyerchick]

Re: The Guy with the Chainsaw

I'm not much of a runner, but I couldn't resist your subject-line. I think the main recommendations for running safety are:

1. Don't run early a.m. or late night
2. Keep aware of your surroundings - NO IPOD!
3. Wear a whistle and carry a cell phone
4. Pepperspray or self defense classes if you're comfortable with fighting back, if you're not trained, though, these things can put you in greater danger

[Nightporter]

Re: The Guy with the Chainsaw

My mother used to go to a bad party college... And she had to walk around at all times on campus (Especially at night) with a baseball bat. Perhaps you could take a "walking stick" that is big, heavy, and will leave guys with chainsaws running! ;-)

-N-

Well... Maybe not guys with chainsaws... But for anyone else, yeah!

[Lyssie]

Re: The Guy with the Chainsaw

Wow. I guess I'm like, a neon sign waiting to be attacked. I only go play out in the woods in areas I feel safe in, and during the day (unless I'm with someone else). Then again, I only go running outside in areas I feel pretty safe in too since I usually go around 3am, without a cellphone, and with an mp3 player on. I do always tell someone where I'm going and how long I expect to be gone (then make *sure* I return on time).

[Miss Phode]

Re: The Guy with the Chainsaw

Did you ever see the CSI where the personal trainer was killing her athletic clients and eating their organs?

[Lyssie]

Re: The Guy with the Chainsaw

eek! No... what season? I should put that in my Blockbuster list.

[Miss Phode]

Re: The Guy with the Chainsaw

I have no idea what season. Maybe I can google it.

[Miss Phode]

Re: The Guy with the Chainsaw

OK, I can't find it.

[julirama723]

Re: The Guy with the Chainsaw

I guess this means we shouldn't go running in the woods with our PTs?

[JudyMac]

Re: The Guy with the Chainsaw

No take big doggie instead and yes a walking stick for snakes don't you know? Heehee

Judy

PS I live in the middle of nowhere and can walk safely in the woods for miles and miles, of course my mad labrador is always with me!

[sallyseachange]

Re: The Guy with the Chainsaw

Oh wow! I walk my dogs at dawn through woods, across fields and down country lanes. Mostly in lonely spots, to avoid "other dog" probs or traffic etc. I do sometimes think about safety (and men with chainsaws!!)... but really my only precaution is to have a cell phone with me. It's pretty safe in my neck of the woods... but you never know. Now I hear you all talking about this, it makes me think I should be more careful.

One time, I did get shot at (above my head) twice, by angry hunters...but that's another story!!!! Hunters don't like dogs who run around disturbing their prey!