Understanding self defense for runners is key to staying safe and protected on a run. Whether you run alone or with a group, in a city or in the country, attacks on unsuspecting runners are unfortunately becoming all too common.
Running self defense can be comprised of multiple different tactics: strategically planning your route, knowledge of how to fight back, and carrying self-defense products that can help scare or fight off an attacker.
What should I carry for self defense while running?
One of the more common items that runners used to carry for self defense is pepper spray. And while pepper spray can be effective, it usually works best when the runner is aware of the approaching attacker and has time to turn towards them and prepare the spray.
However, this is certainly not always the case. Other running self defense products continue to be created, all with the ability to enhance your defense in a variety of different ways.
Products such as alarms or whistles, lights, sprays, stun guns, and even self defense rings that aid runners in fighting back are becoming increasingly common.
Should runners know self defense?
Although the market is becoming more and more saturated with products, knowledge of basic self defense for runners is still incredibly beneficial. Feeling confident with even just one or two ways to physically fend off an attacker can help runners prepare for a variety of different situations that could occur.
Taking a class, joining a group, or getting physical practice with a friend or family member are all incredibly beneficial – and potentially life saving.
Runners who run alone, especially in areas that are less populated, should certainly prioritize learning some simple self defense.
12 Self Defense Tips for Runners
Being able to physically fend off an attacker is one of the best running self defense strategies. However, there are a few other strategic tweaks or preventative measures that you can take to help reduce your chance of being attacked – and increase your chance of fighting one off.
Here are a few easy-to-implement strategies when it comes to self defense for runners.
- Plan a route with multiple exits
- Carry your phone
- Tell someone where and when you are going
- Carry an alarm or whistle
- Run against traffic
- Bring lights or wear reflective gear
- Vary where and when you run
- Be aware of surrounding businesses
- Adjust your route if you think you’re being followed
- Run in populated, well-lit areas
- Carry self-defense products to help fight back
- Bring ID with you
14 Running Self Defense Products to Keep You Safe
Regardless of whether or not you know some running self defense moves, bringing along certain products can help avoid an attack or fight off an attacker in just a few moments.
These self defense products have a wide variety of purposes, such as sounding an alarm or creating light to make a scene, spraying an attacker before they approach, or enhancing your protection and ability to fight back should you be attacked.
Here are some of the best self defense products for runners. Whether you choose to carry one or many, you will certainly be safer for it.
Defender Ring
The Defender Ring is a sleek, discrete, powerful self-defense aid for runners. These rings look simply like that: a ring. However, they are so much more. These products have the ability to fight off or deter an attack, cut through ropes or zip ties, and even collect DNA.
Defender Ring offers three different types of rings: minimalist, maximalist, and open point rings. The minimalist rings feature a 5 mm blade with sharp edges and a pointed tip. The tip is protected, allowing runners to wear these rings at any time while being discrete.
Maximalist rings feature a 10 mm blade that is either serrated or straight. These blades are able to cut through rope or zip ties. Open point rings are not concealed in any way, but have a stylish-looking design with sharp edges and points. The provide the least protection of the three, but are readily available to use when worn.
Whether you’re looking for just a little peace of mind or to arm yourself with ultimate, discrete protection for runners, these self-defense rings are a versatile option. With tons of different styles, there is certainly something for every runner. Adding a ring to your running ensemble is virtually effortless, but can assist any runner should the worst occur.
>> Shop the Defender Rings here!
Running Alarms
Another self defense option for runners is to carry any alarm or whistle to easily create a scene and attract attention should you be attacked. These alarms can easily be concealed and accessed in even the most chaotic situation.
Here are a few of our favorite running alarms and whistles.
Pepper Sprays
Perhaps the most popular choice when it comes to self defense for runners is pepper spray. These sprays are easy to purchase and can be carried in a pouch, bag or even your hand.
Keep in mind, though, that sprays can be hard to activate, as they usually require moving a switch or lever to spray. However, carrying some is certainly more protection than none. Here are some of our favorites.
Running Lights
Another way to potentially deter an attack is to carry lights or wear bright gear so that you can easily be seen. These lights might not aid in actually fighting an attacker, but they help draw attention to runners to easily create a scene. Here are some of our favorites.
Identification
A simple way to help stay safer when running is to wear or bring ID at all times. This way, should the worst occur, someone else would be able to identify you when calling for help.
6 Self Defense Resources for Runners
No matter how resourceful you may be, the best form of self defense for runners is awareness and knowledge. Being aware of your surroundings will help you stay alert to any potential dangers, and hopefully, take action to prevent an attack from beginning.
Knowledge of running self defense and actions to take in the event of an attack are key. Without this knowledge, runners are leaving their safety in the hands of others. Here are a few resources to help increase your knowledge, provide practice, and set you up to stay safe on the run.
- Wearing self-defense gear or clothing
- Carrying running self defense products
- Joining a self defense class or community program
- Learning to escape on your own
It is truly unfortunate that the world we live in today requires so much attention, awareness and preparation in order to stay safe. However, in most cases, running is a safe, care-free way to exercise and stay in shape.
In rare cases, though, running alone or in different locations can put our lives at risk. All runners should take the time to prepare themselves with a few defense products, and create a plan to escape an attack should the horrific event occur.
Stay safe, watch out for one another, and be confident in your own abilities.