Running Safe......Learn how to run safe.
by Cindy Hanna

Allow me to introduce myself.  I am a long-distance runner, who logs one hundred forty to two hundred training miles per month.  In the last six months, I have run three full-length marathons, three half marathons, a 10K, 12K obstacle course, and countless 5K’s across the United Stated in all weather conditions.  I am,  “The Just Do It Girl”.  On every run and race, I have a motto, which I refuse to deviate from: “Train hard!  Live Strong!  Have fun, and above all, run smart so I can run another day!”

Fall/Winter is heightened training season to prepare for running the Los Angeles Marathon, which takes place in early March.  The weather is cooler, affording ideal running conditions, and there is still enough time to safely broaden one’s mileage.

Serious long-distance runners traverse an unbelievable number of miles to prepare for this event.  They train on all types of terrain in order to aggrandize their endurance, their strength, and their speed.  Training on hills, mountains, roads, sand and fire access roads, these die-hards will maximize their potential. 

Although athletes elongate their muscles and tendons, build core body strength, and cautiously increase their mileage; do they give as much forethought to their safety? Fog, rain, slick streets, and flooded trails all accompany the cooler weather, increasing the propensity of injury.

Below are a few safety precautions to help ensure your safety while running.

• Wear bright clothing
• Bring enough water for the length of your run, or know where to stop along the way to refill
• Bring a cell phone
• Wear appropriate clothing for the climate you are running in
• Bring protection
• Bring ID
• Have the name and phone number of the person you would like contacted in the case of an emergency easily accessible on your body
• If you’re going to be running a long distance (fifteen miles or more), be sure to bring sustenance to refuel your body as needed
• Leave word with someone as to the expected length of your run and what your course will be

These are intelligible gestures to ensure an enjoyable and safe run.  Train hard! Live strong! Have fun, and above all, run smart so you can run another day!