Taking your workout outdoors is exciting and is a great way to motivate yourself to stay with an exercise plan. Consider these suggestions for protecting yourself on your outdoor workout.

• Avoid wearing headphones. It makes it more difficult to hear traffic or potential attackers and also takes the focus off your workout technique. If you must wear headphones, keep the volume low and pay attention to your surroundings.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Stay in familiar, well-lit areas.
• Work out with a partner or your dog, and if you will be alone let someone know when you expect to be back from your workout and your expected route.
• Always run facing oncoming traffic.
• Make eye contact with drivers of vehicles when at crossroads, traffic lights, etc so you know they see you.
• Carry a cell phone or change for a pay phone in case of emergencies.
• Always carry identification or write your name and phone number on your shoes in case of emergency.
• Wear light reflective clothing.