Winston-Salem, NC January 11, 2013 – Safety is an important part of fitness activities. Our friends at Fleet Feet Sports along with our Daggett Shuler team recently put on a Safety Clinic for their Runners Mentor Training Program to review best practices when runners are sharing the road.
Follow the law! Run on the left side of the road facing traffic, or on the sidewalk or shoulder if available. Cross only at crosswalks or at intersections. And, please obey all traffic signals.
We also reviewed the practical realities. Cars don’t see you when you are running. Accordingly, you need to be seen, be aware, and be alert. Wear visible, reflective clothing; and, please never, ever wear earphones while running. I get a lot of push back on the last part, but it is never safe to wear earphones. You can’t hear traffic, or other predators, and you are not as aware of your surroundings. So, please, PLEASE, enjoy the sounds of nature, be alert, and stay safe.
Another important consideration is to have good insurance. Health insurance is very important. Review your auto, homeowners, disability, and hospital/medical indemnity coverages. Some of these coverages may apply while you are exercising, bicycling, or as a pedestrian. It is also a good idea to carry I.D. and medical information as well as a cell phone while running.
Lastly, it is important to be good examples for others in the fitness community and good ambassadors to the community at large. When others see you safely enjoying your exercise you become an ambassador for safe, responsible behavior. Please help spread the message of safety. You can download safety tips here.
A big ‘Thank You’ to Stacie Battjes and Fleet Feet for putting on the Runners Mentor Training Program and for encouraging the running community to be safe!
Be safe,
David