Self-Defense for Runners by Brandon Jones, Tyler Kung Fu & Fitness
Every year, the most popular New Year’s resolution is to exercise more, and of course, walking and running are the easiest ways to do that. All we need is a good pair of shoes, comfortable clothing, and we’re off to a healthier lifestyle.
There is, however, one aspect of walking/running that’s often overlooked: Personal Safety. I’m not talking about hydration, wearing sunscreen, or carrying our phones. I’m talking about having the skills to prevent a physical assault, or, in the worst case, having to defend ourselves from an attacker.
As a runner and a Kung Fu instructor for the past 30 years, I’ve dealt with frightening situations and I’ve heard even scarier stories from fellow runners. One runner was followed to her car and almost kidnapped, and one young woman in San Antonio was pulled into an alley as she ran along the popular river walk. (I’ll tell you more about this case later).
Sure, these scenarios are rare, but sadly, physical assaults on runners are on the up rise. But we’re not powerless and the following tips that I call the Runner’s 5 equips us with the skills necessary to protect ourselves.
Have a plan: A famous quote in combat training is, “The body cannot go where the mind hasn’t been.” Ask yourself, what would I do if…and then play the movie in your mind. Military, police, and first responders all practice this. Runners should as well.
Have the tools: mace, pepper spray, a knife, or a gun. All of these defensive tools are effective as long as you train with them and know how to use them. Seek out professionals (like me) to properly train you, and then practice, practice, practice. As for carrying a gun, you must have your conceal carry license in addition to hours of extra training. Just having a weapon doesn’t suddenly grant you 100% protection.
Share your location with family and friends and let them know how long it takes you to finish your route. If you’re later than normal, your family needs to be on the alert.
Know the Baselines: Think of the animal world. The deer and antelope all sense a change in their environment whenever a lion is tracking them and then they act on that change by herding up or running away.
Running the same route everyday, you’d be surprised how many details you subconsciously notice such as where cars are parked, which streetlights are on, which neighbor is always home, which one is not. Even on a wooded trail, you notice certain rock formations, fallen trees, or alternate trails. All of these details may seem trivial, but on your next run, if something is different, you need to take notice. Any change in your baseline should activate your “animal senses”. Remember, bad guys want to surprise you. Don’t be caught off guard.
Be vigilant. Walk / run with confidence, good posture, body upright, head on a swivel. Acknowledge other runners with a simple “Hello”, a wave, or a nod. Doing this lets others know that you are conscious of their presence. Remember the hunter lion. He wants an unaware, easy prey.
Now, regarding the runner from San Antonio. Not her real name, but we’ll call her Gail.
Last year, my team held a Runner’s Safety workshop for Christus Mother Frances and Gail attended. One of the techniques she learned was defending herself against someone pulling her by her hair or shirt, or backpack.
The very next day, Gail returned to San Antonio went on a run. On that run, a man grabbed her and began pulling her behind a building. Remembering what she had learned, Gail defended herself and was able to escape. She called police and fortunately, the man was arrested.
Gail shared that if she hadn’t had a plan or had practiced what to do, that event could have had very different ending.
Running is fantastic! My hope is this article didn’t frighten you but empowered you to continue running with confidence.
Written by Brandon Jones, owner of Tyler Kung Fu & Fitness.
Feel free to reach out to him with any questions or to schedule a self-defense class at tkff.com or (903) 597-0275.