One of the all time best ways to get some great exercise is to go for a run. However, while you’re out there pounding pavement and sucking wind you must understand your vulnerability and take steps to protect yourself.
I’ve been a distance jogger for over ten years and fortunately my worst stories of danger on the road include only some unfriendly aggressive dogs and rude drivers. Unfortunately, others have experienced much worse such as abduction, rape, and murder and even death by wild animals or packs of vicious dogs. We haven’t even discussed the threat from all the inattentive drivers on the roadway.
I found this recent news story to be particularly disturbing reference a 60 year old jogger being gunned down apparently at random while standing on a street corner in a Kansas City suburb. Police have reason to believe that a gang initiation maybe a possible motive. There is probably little or nothing that this poor man could have done differently to protect himself from such a senseless, savage attack. The rest of us should reflect on this chilling tragedy and make a renewed effort to to sharpen one of our best weapons, situational awareness.
Avoidance is often the best protection and it’s easiest to accomplish if you can see the trouble coming from a long ways away. How about head phones? Many people probably can’t imagine going on a run without listening to music, but I think most would agree that by “tuning in” to your grooves you greatly diminish your awareness.
Everybody is going to approach this unique aspect of personal protection differently and while carrying a pistol while jogging maybe a great option for some it is not going to be realistic for all. This is one of the few legitimate times to use that fanny pack for concealed carry! A can of OC/CS spray might also be another great option for dealing with pesky dogs. Regardless of whether or not you choose to carry any type of a weapon while out for a run, think through your route and consider any way possible to be more alert and mitigate threats.
Look for a review of the some running holster options coming soon on JTT.
This is of personal interest to me. I would like to see some comparisons. While it may be less effective against thugs, I have thought about a credit card knife to clip on while on long runs. Though effective against strays, which tends to be my main problem.
Hill People Gear make a great Kit bag for Pistols. I am sure each option has its pros/cons which would be interesting to see.
A workable option would be one of the numerous backpack-water bladder systems available now. It seems over the years, they’ve gained in popularity. While definitely not the fastest method for producing a handgun, it’s better than nothing.
Bellyband holster + Glock 26. Jog with it all the time. Also holds cellphone and keys nice and snug. Works great.
j-frame is the best for me, after all the reviews are in for carry protection due to weight and reliable over all,,SMITH makes great products!
I carry the 340PD in .357 Mag in a similar manner, I’d recommend carrying the six shot strips instead of the five as it is easy to lose one reloading under stress and it never hurts to have an extra.