Tips on Exercise Safety in Your Neighborhood
Stay safe outside while getting in shape
You've made a plan to be more active, and you're ready to go outside and get started. But before you do, make sure that you can exercise safely in your neighborhood. Here are a few tips that can help you stay safe as you get moving.
Think ahead about safety.
- Take an ID and cell phone with you, but stay alert by not talking on the phone as you walk.
- Let others know where you’re going and when you plan to be back.
- Stick to well-lit places with other people around.
- Take a flashlight and be sure you have reflective material on your jacket or walking shoes if you walk in the early morning or evening.
- Put lights on the front and back of your bike.
Walk safely in rural areas.
- Be sure drivers can see you.
- Always walk facing oncoming traffic.
- Look for a smooth, stable surface alongside the road.
- If the road has guardrails, see if there’s a good walking space behind the barrier.
If you don't feel safe exercising outdoors, be active inside.
- Find local stores or malls large enough for you to walk around.
- Walk up and down your stairs a few times in a row. Be sure the stairwell is well lit and has railings for safety.
- At home, do the strength, balance, and flexibility exercises in Exercise and Physical Activity: Your Everyday Guide from the National Institute on Aging.
- Work out with an exercise DVD such as the Go4Life DVD.
Quick Tip
Be alert to outdoor safety and enjoy your exercise!