Running in the mountains in South Africa is a sight and setting to behold, with the crunch of the trail under your shoes and the stunning vista in your sight. While you might think it’s easy to put on your running footwear and hit the trails simply, you’ll need to keep a few components in mind to enjoy this activity in a safe manner.
Unsplash/Alex Gorham
Unsure how to take on the rocky trails like a pro? Take a look at a few safety tips and tricks to ensure you can jog in the mountains with confidence.
Run with a partner or let someone know where you’re running
When running in the mountains, there is safety in numbers, making you less of a target in rocky terrains. With an experienced running partner, you’ll also have the advantage of having a guide to navigate unknown terrain if you’re looking to go alone on your next run.
A running partner could also help you in an emergency and lead you to safety, whether you’ve suffered an injury or found yourself taking a wrong turn. If you’re planning on running along, tell someone where you’ll be running and what time you expect to return.
Take a look at your route beforehand
It’s advised to familiarise yourself with the route in case you become confused about which route markers to follow. Taking a look beforehand will also help you determine whether the particular trail is appropriate for your skill level.
If you’re worried you’ll forget, you can also take a screenshot of the trail route in order to see where you’ll need to go. Be sure to send this image to a chosen person in case of an emergency.
Choose a popular trail if you’re a beginner
A well-known trail will allow you to run on a path which experiences a lot of foot traffic, which makes it a safer option if you’re a bit worried of opportunistic characters lurking around. More people of the trail also means you’ll also have a sense of where you’ll need to go.
Take safety gear
As mountain trails are considered to be generally quiet and isolated environments, you’ll need a number of items to protect yourself against any type of harm. This includes:
- Pepper spray
- Mini medical kit (bandages, ointment, etc.)
- Sunscreen (as skin cancer is a silent danger to look out for)
Wear the right shoes
While many consider safety procedures in the mountains to be mainly about protecting yourself from shady elements, you’ll need to consider your joint health as well. Appropriate trail running shoes will ensure you’re more protected from injuries and keeps your joints safe from the hard impact mountainous areas can have.
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