A Close Call on the Trail

Every night as the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the old railway trails that our city I, like so many others, lace up my running shoes in anticipation of my evening jog.

Where I live the city’s trails, repurposed from old railway lines, have always been a haven for fitness enthusiasts and families alike.

But recently, they’ve become a bit more complicated.

There has been a surge in drug abuse, with crack and fentanyl plaguing the streets.

This unfortunate rise in addiction has led to a significant increase in the homeless population.

Encampments have sprung up all over, including one major encampment tucked just off the main trail in the forest.

It’s a stark and sad reminder of the challenges our community faces.

One early morning, a woman in our community, let's call her Sarah, experienced something that serves as a critical lesson for us all.

Sarah loves her morning jogs on the trail. They’re her time to clear her head and start the day with a burst of energy.

But this particular morning was different.

As she jogged along, lost in her thoughts, a young homeless man appeared seemingly out of nowhere.

Before she knew it, he grabbed at her and managed to secure wrist.

Panic surged through her, but Sarah didn't freeze (thank God).

She twisted her wrist sharply, breaking free from his grip and took off running.

She didn't stop running, using the adrenaline to propel herself forward, putting as much distance as possible between her and her attacker.

The man followed her for a short distance, but she managed to reach a more populated area, eventually finding safety off the trail.

Sarah’s quick thinking and presence of mind saved her from a potentially dangerous situation.

Her story highlights the importance of being prepared and staying aware of your surroundings, especially when jogging in areas that might not be entirely safe.

Here are some practical tips to stay safe while enjoying your outdoor exercise:

1. Run with a buddy: There’s safety in numbers. If you can, jog with a friend or join a running group. Not only does it make the run more enjoyable, but it also reduces the risk of being targeted.

2. Stay alert: Keep your senses sharp. Avoid using headphones, or at least keep the volume low enough to hear what’s happening around you. Being aware of your surroundings is your first line of defense.

3. Vary your routine: Don’t stick to the same route every day. Changing your path makes it harder for anyone with ill intentions to predict your movements.

4. Carry a safety device: Personal alarms, whistles, or pepper spray can be effective deterrents. Make sure you know how to use them and keep them easily accessible.

5. Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Don’t hesitate to cut your run short or change your route if you feel uneasy.

6. Learn basic self-defense: Knowing how to defend yourself can make all the difference. Simple techniques, like breaking free from wrist grabs, can be lifesaving.

In our upcoming issue of Fight or Flight Pro Newsletter will be looking at how to master self defense against wrist grabs.

You’ll get step-by-step instructions and tips from myself and other experts to help you feel more confident and prepared.

Subscribe to Fight or Flight Pro here.

Stay safe, stay alert, and keep enjoying those beautiful trails. Remember, your safety is paramount, and a little preparation can go a long way.

The following video discusses a survey conducted that finds that over half of female joggers were harassed while jogging. Click the video to get all the stats.