What is Self-Defense for Runners?
- Nicole Snell
- Feb 25
- 2 min read
What is empowerment focused self-defense for runners?
Empowerment Focused Self-defense training helps you run strong, with confidence, awareness, and self-efficacy. We don't have to wait for the world to change before we live our life without limits. We can stand in our power TODAY!
Whether solo, with a club, or friends while on the road, trail, or track, running offers a wide range of positive physical and mental health benefits. Those are in addition to the exercise and potential social aspects too!
Unfortunately, negative experiences while running and/or concern for one's safety can result in fear that causes runners to restrict their activities.
I was a solo runner for years and I know firsthand how fear can limit the joy and freedom of running. I've had my own scary experiences while running and even though I didn't have the self-defense skills I have now, I did what was necessary to get to safety. I'm grateful to have new skills and techniques at my fingertips to deal with sticky situation!
👉🏽In a recent study, 84.2% of participants (who were primarily women) reported at least one form of harassment while running.
👉🏽Statistics show that 68% of women runners have experienced harassment.
These numbers help us identify the problem, but it doesn't have to stop you from doing what you love. We can work on a solution (in fact many solutions are needed) while we refuse to allow potential predators to control our movement in the world.
One such solution which restores our personal power is empowerment focused self-defense education. Being prepared with both verbal and physical skills to speak up for yourself, use situational awareness, and protect yourself from uncomfortable or unsafe situations is valuable. Self-defense can help you continue to enjoy your sport/hobby/training and beyond with skills that are practical, accessible and relevant in a variety of scenarios. And if you have experienced violence, it can help you on your healing journey.
Check out all of my available programs HERE!
Sources:
Davis, C. N., Huber, K. A., & Frazier, P. A. (2024). Public Harassment of Runners in the United States: Differences by Gender and Sexual Orientation. Psychology of Women Quarterly, 48(3), 359-372. https://doi.org/10.1177/03616843241235107 (Original work published 2024)
University of Manchester Study: https://blog.policy.manchester.ac.uk/posts/2024/11/the-abuse-of-women-runners-implications-for-the-violence-against-women-and-girls-policy-agenda/
Women's Running- National Women's Running Survey
