Why Running Is A Dangerous Sport for Women

Why Running Is a Dangerous Sport for Women

In a world where simply existing in public is a safety concern for women, running is a vulnerable activity — especially when it’s dark out. 

How safety concerns impact female runners 

In a recent Instagram poll, we asked our followers if they worry about their safety on runs. Nearly 90% said yes. When asked what scares them most, many cited violent crimes — particularly when running at night or in the early morning. About 19% of respondents specifically mentioned men as a source of their fear. 

Over 70% of runners who responded also said their fears sometimes prevent them from running. Emily Abbate, a journalist, certified run coach, and host of the wellness podcast “Hurdle,” says she has mostly stopped running in the dark following the murder of jogger Eliza Fletcher last fall.

These very legitimate concerns affect women’s physical and mental health: An Adidas survey found that the majority of women who experienced harassment while running reported feelings of anxiety, and 46% said they have now lost interest in the sport. “So many women feel as though they can't do this thing that brings them so much joy … because they are unsure about their safety,” says Abbate. 

Your move

The responsibility to fix this issue shouldn't be on women. But for Abbate and others, taking steps to manage fears and feel safer is better than letting them get in the way of an activity they love. If that’s the case for you, you could…  

Bring a buddy. Having a companion could put you at ease. 

Tune into your surroundings. One Skimm’r said running with headphones can make them feel “vulnerable.” Opting for ones that don’t block out surrounding noise or have a transparency mode might help. 

Use a personal safety device. Such as a Birdie alarm or pepper spray, or share your location with family or friends.

Plan your route. Abbate suggests sticking to popular routes that are highly trafficked.

Read more about the challenges female runners face.

We asked you to vote on a question you’d like answered. The winner was:

What’s the correct order for my shower routine?

FEATURED EXPERT:

Erin Gilbert, MD

Board-certified dermatologist and founder and director of Gilbert Dermatology

“I advise my patients to start their shower routine by washing and conditioning their hair. Residue from shampoo and conditioner can remain on the body if you do it later. 

“[Give] your body a good preliminary cleanse … prior to shaving. [Use] a non-drying soap or bodywash [and avoid] products that rapidly suds and leave your skin feeling too tight after using them. 

“Reserve [exfoliating] for … no more than once every week to two weeks. Your skin is your biggest line of defense against your daily environment. If you thin out that protective layer, you can actually increase your susceptibility to dryness and even infection.

“I tell my patients to wash their faces at the end of their shower. [After showering,] It’s best to apply your facial products before your skin is completely dry … to facilitate absorption and maximum hydration.” 

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. You can read the full story here.

Catch up on the latest health news, tips, and trends.

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Here, Skimm Well Writer Sami Roberts tests a skincare device that may help reduce wrinkles and acne.

What we tried: reVive Light Therapy Lux Collection Soniqué Cleanser — A handheld facial cleansing and massaging device equipped with red, infrared, amber, and blue LED lights and two vibration settings.

Where you can find it: On the LED Technologie website and other major stores

What it'll cost you: $199 (note: It’s FSA- and HSA-eligible)

What to expect: There isn't a lot of research on light therapy, but the little that's out there suggests that red light can trigger collagen production and skin rejuvenation, while blue light can kill certain acne-causing bacteria. Ideally, that means less acne and fewer wrinkles and acne scars. My goal: To minimize my two most prominent forehead wrinkles with the red light setting.

With each use, I either cleansed my skin with the bristle pad or massaged in some face oil — all while bathing my skin in red light. After two to three uses per week for about 10 weeks (the minimum number of weeks recommended to see results), my forehead friends are still with me. I plan to stick with it — and enjoy my new self-care ritual — as I wait for visible results. But given the limited research on at-home light devices, I’m managing my expectations. 

Bottom line: If you've got $200 to splurge on your skin, you may find a red light mask (which covers your entire face) more efficient. Or, opt for doctor-administered red light therapy treatment, which is typically stronger than at-home devices.

The holidays are just around the corner. And so is the stress that comes along with them. To top it off, research suggests that added stress can have negative effects on your metabolism. Grrrrreat.

Thankfully, our friends at Pendulum have just the thing. Their doctor-formulated multi-strain probiotic helps you metabolize sugars and carbs while naturally replenishing your gut microbiome.† Plus, it efficiently converts the foods you eat into longer-lasting energy. No wonder Halle Berry is a big fan. Even better? Skimm’rs get 20% off their first month with code SKIMM20 when they subscribe.

"Cozy cardio"

— The latest workout trend, which prioritizes comfy vibes over intensity. What's not to like?