6 Ways to Exercise Safely at Night

When I joined a weight loss program a year ago, I knew that I'd have to be inventive at how and when I got to exercise. Since I was already paying the fee to join a program, I couldn't afford a gym membership. Plus having three kids at home, I don't always get to go out and walk or jog whenever I feel like it. I do dance inside my home to get exercise but to me, it is not the same as getting out and taking a nice long walk. The best time for me to exercise by myself is at night but since nighttime doesn't always equal safety, I knew that I would have to be prepared. If you're in the same boat as I am and find it easiest to exercise at night, this article will give you a few tips on how to stay safe.

#1: Buddy System

It's true that there is safety in numbers so if you have a buddy or family member that wants to exercise with you, take them up on it. However the buddy system doesn't have to mean that someone goes with you on your walk as we all don't have that option. If you are exercising in your own neighborhood and have someone at home, ask them to step outside on the porch when they think that you'll be home so they can watch you walk the rest of the way home. If you live alone, call a friend and ask if they will call you at a certain time to make sure that you made it home safety. In the case that something does happen, they can call the police to let you know that something may have happened to you.

#2: Cell Phone

You'd think that most people have a cell phone but many don't. If you are exercising alone at night, you need a cell phone. Have a low budget? There are pay as you go cell phones that cost only $10 dollars for the phone and then you can buy a card of minutes for $20 dollars. If you don't use the phone that often, the minutes will last you a while. If trouble occurs, you can call for assistance and the peace of mind of knowing that you have a phone is well worth the investment.

#3: Whistle

No, you're not going to whistle with your mouth, instead buy an actual whistle that you can attach to your wrist or wear around your neck. If you spot someone with the intent to harm you, start blowing away on that whistle as you run away. The noise may cause them to leave you alone as they won't want anyone to come investigate or it will bring people out to see what the heck the noise is.

#4 Leave Valuables at Home

You may love that new expensive watch or diamond necklace that you've bought yourself or received as a gift but leave it at home. It will be OK at home until you get back. Don't tempt thieves by flashing around bling. It's important to stay safe, not be in style on your walk.

#5: Flashlight

It never hurts to have a little light, especially when you are walking or jogging alone at night. A light can help you see around an especially dark area or it can help you flag someone down if you have a problem. You don't have to have a huge flashlight; they sell small ones that will clip right to your clothing.

#6: Don't Walk in a Bad Neighborhood

This should be a given but if you live in a not so great area, don't walk in it alone at night! It is always better to be safe then sorry so if you live in an area that is questionable, drive to somewhere that is located in a better neighborhood. Don't sacrifice your life for a little exercise.