Situational awareness for runners: Take back the run
For many runners, hitting the pavement is more than just exercise—it’s freedom, stress relief, and time to think. But in today’s world, it’s also important to recognize the risks that come with it. Whether you're running solo at dawn, through neighborhoods, trails, or busy streets, your safety depends on more than just pace and endurance—it depends on situational awareness.
That’s why we created Take Back the Run, a collaborative safety course from RunningMate x Paratus Group—designed specifically for runners like you.
Why Situational Awareness Matters When You Run
It’s easy to get into a rhythm—literally. But the same routine that brings comfort can also make you vulnerable if you're not alert to your surroundings. And unfortunately, news stories of harassment, abductions, or attacks while running aren’t rare.
Situational awareness gives you the ability to:
Recognize potential threats early
Trust your gut and make quick, confident decisions
Prevent dangerous situations before they escalate
Stay one step ahead—mentally and physically
It’s not about fear. It’s about freedom with confidence.
Common Risk Factors for Runners
In our course, we break down the specific risks runners face:
Running with headphones or zoning out
Taking the same route or routine daily
Isolated trails or dark early-morning paths
Ignoring subtle red flags like parked vehicles, lingering individuals, or blocked sightlines
Being unprepared for verbal harassment or confrontation
These situations can escalate quickly—but when you’re trained to notice and respond, you gain control of the outcome.
What You’ll Learn in Take Back the Run
This course is not your typical safety lecture. It’s practical, relatable, and built for the real-world challenges runners face every day.
Inside the course, you’ll learn:
✅ How to develop daily situational awareness habits while running
✅ What your body and instincts are trying to tell you—and how to listen
✅ How to recognize red flags and warning signs before they become threats
✅ Verbal de-escalation tips and what to say (or not say) if confronted
✅ How to change your route and routine to avoid becoming a predictable target
✅ The 3P Process: Prepare. Prevent. Protect.—a simple, proven method to stay ahead of danger
You’ll also get bonus tools like route checklists, downloadable habit reminders, and real-life scenario walkthroughs.
Created for Runners, by Runners & Safety Experts
This course was built by female runners and safety professionals who understand the mental and physical side of what it takes to run with confidence. Whether you're training for your next 10K or running laps in your neighborhood, you deserve to feel strong, focused, and safe.
Ready to Take Back the Run?
If you’ve ever felt nervous running alone...
If you’ve ever looked over your shoulder or picked up your pace when something felt “off”...
If you just want to run freely—without fear—
This course is for you.
🎯 Take the first step toward confident running.
👉 Enroll in “Take Back the Run” today and start training your awareness just like you train your body.
https://mailchi.mp/paratus/takebacktherun
