Safety items every athlete should have
Updated: Jun. 05, 2013
You’ll enjoy a workout even more if you know you’re safe. These products can help
Get fit and stay safe
Exercising outdoors is a great way to mix up your workout but it also means you need to be extra diligent about safety-especially if you’re solo. Here are some safety items to consider:
Reflective or glow-in-the-dark clothing
When you’re running or biking in the early morning or evening it’s essential that cars and other runners or bikers are able to clearly see you. Bright clothing with reflective or glow-in-the-dark features will help. The Hi-Viz Beacon Jacket from New Balance is in a sleek style that’s also functional for both sport and safety. It comes in a vibrant colour, plus it has reflective details and glow-in-the-dark technology for increased visibility. ($180, newbalance.ca)
A personal security device
MyRingGuard is a U.S.-based company that makes a personal secur?ity device you wear around your finger when you’re out walking, running or cycling. If you encounter trouble-whether someone is threatening you or you injure yourself-push the button and it will trigger your smartphone to send an urgent message. Along with your GPS location, a Google map link to your location and your medical history, the message goes to as many as four pre-?programmed emergency contacts. (For it to work, your phone must be turned on and within 15 feet of the ring.) MyRingGuard is currently available for Android phones; iPhone availability is expected this year. ($50, myringguard.com)
Identification
Road ID, also a U.S.-based company, creates various types of wearable identification for runners, cyclists and anyone who is active. The Wrist ID Slim, which comes in a variety of colours, is engraved with your name and the names of your emergency contacts along with their phone numbers so that if you have, say, a serious wipeout on your bike and end up unconscious, first responders will know whom to contact. After all, even if you carry regular ID with you, it probably doesn’t have a contact cellphone number for your husband or other relative. ($18, roadid.com)
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