SELF PROTECTION WHILE KEEPING FIT -March 2015
By Glenn Stevens / C.O.B.R.A Training Center In Australia.
No matter where you’re going, it’s important to know where you’re going in advance. When exercising, stick to busy and well-lit streets and avoid isolated places if possible. Never take a shortcut if the longer route is safer. If you can arrange it, it’s better to exercise with a friend; you’ll have safety in numbers, and the activity will just be more fun.
These geography tips aren’t just because there’s a rapist coming to get you, or some other dire prediction. What if you fell, or twisted your ankle? What if you’re diabetic and your blood sugar dropped? What if you just got lost? It’s always easier to find help—for any reason—if there are people around.
When exercising, carry yourself with a degree of alert confidence, with your head held high, frequently scanning around you. Remember, the goal is to look like someone who isn’t an easy target. You don’t need to strut like a pro wrestler, just look like you know how to handle yourself.
When turning the corner of a building, check out the corners by walking wider so you can see potential threats much more easily. By walking too close to the corners, you will be making yourself more vulnerable. Again, it’s not just about avoiding the bogeyman, you might be turning the corner and slamming right into a stack of packages waiting to be delivered. Just be aware of where you are and what’s happening.
If you exercise or walk in the same place often, vary your route so your movements are less predictable. Don’t relax your guard just because you know the area well. On an important exercise-related note, did you know that varying your route can also prevent repetitive motion injuries? If you walk or run on the same path, in the same direction, every single time, you’re putting identical stress on the identical parts of your joints. Vary things up to keep your exercise interesting, to stay healthy, and to stay safe.
If you get the feeling that you’re being followed or if you notice someone who gives you the creeps, don’t be stupid. Do not ignore what your brain may unconsciously be trying to tell you. If you even think there might be danger, get to the nearest safe area immediately. Surround yourself with bystanders if you can.
By keeping yourself fit, you give yourself the best chance of getting away safely. Can you imagine if you had to fight off an attacker, which you did successfully, but you were then too out of breath to run far enough away. Also, keeping fit will mean that your muscles will be stronger, so that if you do get into a physical altercation, you will have a greater chance of successfully defending yourself. Increased fitness levels will also build confidence and self esteem levels, which will also make you look less like an easy target.
So get out in the fresh air, improve your body and your mind, stay safe, and enjoy your fitness.
Glenn Stevens Contact Info:
glennbbs@gmail.com
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