When there are fewer pedestrians walking around, you have fewer obstacles to dodge on the sidewalk.

Just check that you still stick to areas with open visibility.

Think of it as a chance to meditate while you exercise.

If youre not convinced, there are still some other options.

You might also want to consider investing in a pair of open ear headphones, like theShokz OpenRun.

Yeah, thats becausemore muggings happen at night.

If you dont have someone to run with, get a dog.

Or borrow a dog.

Not only does it make you a less attractive target, dogs can sometimes sense danger before we can.

Obviously, a tiny yippity dog isnt ideal for that, but you get the idea.

Attackers want things to be easy.

Having another body around adds plenty of complications, and will likely deter many criminals.

But what about if you know the attacker?

Or what if the attacker doesnt go after people randomly?

Stalkers and acquaintance-turned-bad guys are an unfortunate reality, especially for women.

Sometimes, however, this rule is ineffective, and even unsafe.

You want drivers to see you just as much, if not more, than you could see them.

Keep out of the road if possible and always be ready to escape somewhere.

Approach intersections and streets with caution

Crossing busy intersections is the most present danger for city runners.

If a runner isnt paying attention, they can be hit by a car.

If a driver isnt paying attention, a runner can be hit by a car.

See how runners lose this battle no matter what?

Besides looking both ways, there are a couple things you should do at every intersection.

James Raia at Active suggestsyou run behind vehicles when possible (especially vehicles in the turn lane).

Just because they stopped doesnt mean that they see you and know youre about to run by.

Its also a bad idea to try and beat a crosswalk light.

Youre gambling that youll make it in time, and relying on your body a little too much.

Wait at the light for the next little white man telling you its OK.

If you want to keep your heart rate up, jog in place.

Or better yet, do other exercises like pushups and squats while you wait.

Never make assumptions about drivers either.

Dont assume that they see you, or that theyll actually stop at a stop sign.

Approach every crossing with caution so you could live to run another day.

Lastly, if you think someone isnt paying attention, they probably arent.

The same goes for children running wild on the sidewalk.

Give them plenty of space and slow down.

That said, there are some instincts you need be more wary of trusting.

Additionally,youre dedicated, so might put your training ahead of your personal safety.