Women runners are more afraid than ever

How often do you consider the safety of your surroundings when running? While running has surged in popularity, with race registrations soaring and running shoe brands experiencing record sales, many women face a growing, unsettling fear, as reported by CBC. The recent, tragic case of Alyssa Lokits, who was murdered while running in Nashville, highlights this issue and raises questions about safety for women runners everywhere.

A culture of fear

On Oct. 14., 34-year-old Alyssa Lokits was fatally shot while jogging on a popular trail. Witnesses reported hearing her scream for help, then hearing gunshots. Despite taking precautions, such as running during the day and practising self-defense, Lokits became yet another name in a disturbing list of women killed while exercising. “Alyssa did everything right,” noted an Instagram account dedicated to her memory, encouraging people to run or walk for her at the same time she was attacked. “It is unacceptable for a woman to go on a run and not make it back home.”

“Finish the Run” event planned in Toronto after runner violently assaulted” — Canadian Running Magazine

In Sept. 2022, Eliza Fletcher, a 34-year-old mother of two, was running near the University of Memphis where she was grabbed and forced into an SUV. Her body was found days later, and her accused killer will face trial in February.

There are many more women recently attacked or killed while running, and not just in the U.S. They include Johannesburg school teacher Kirsten Kluyts, who was pregnant when she was killed. And Samantha Murphy, 51, of Australia, a mom of three.

Statistics paint a complicated picture

Despite the alarming news stories, crime statistics indicate that attacks on women runners in Canada are rare. According to Statistics Canada, only one per cent of gender-related homicides are committed by strangers, and the rate of gender-related attempted murder has been declining since 2017. Nevertheless, the stories of Canadian women murdered while running still resonate. Vancouver’s Wendy Ladner-Beaudry and Toronto’s Margaret McWilliam were both killed during routine runs, and their cases remain unsolved. This lingering fear is echoed by Susan Ibach, an Ottawa-based runner, who remarked, “Even here in Ottawa, yes, it’s something I do think about.”

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While attacks on women runners may be rare, most women report experiencing harassment while running. New research out of Simon Fraser University reported that women trail runners were more likely than men to report losing cellphone service and being afraid of other people; the women were also more popular running paths.” The desire to stay safe often means making adjustments to routines and locations, a reality not faced to the same extent by male runners.

What can be done?

Experts emphasize the importance of focusing on prevention. Callie Rennison, a criminal justice professor at the University of Colorado who studies violence against women, argues for a societal shift in responsibility. “I wish there was more emphasis on teaching men not to assault women rather than telling women what they should or should not do,” she said.

For women, it can be helpful to take proactive measures. Joining running groups, carrying emergency ID tags or planning routes through well-populated areas can enhance safety. Social media and community platforms often share tips for safer running practices, fostering a sense of solidarity among women runners.

Ultimately, while fear can loom large, it shouldn’t deter women from enjoying the sport they love. As Rennison aptly put it, “What is the alternative? Trying to exist quietly doesn’t protect us either.”

posted Saturday October 26th
by Running Magazine