Lighten Up
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DO wear brightly colored clothing or reflective gear, especially if you are running pre-dawn or post-sunset. Running in the city means running around plenty of cars and people, and you'll definitely want to be seen.
Find your
next raceFind Some Support
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DO find running shoes with the appropriate cushioning. City running means you'll find yourself on concrete, brick and other hard surfaces—all of which are not super friendly to joints, especially knees. Shoes with increased cushioning can help soften the impact your joints take when pounding the pavement.
Find your
next raceUnexpected Detours
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DO be aware that high-rise buildings (and possibly wireless signals) can affect the GPS signal on your run tracker/watch. Using mobile apps such as Strava and MapMyRun to pre-plan your route can help you avoid this situation. Don't freak the next time your Garmin says you ran a 50-minute mile.
Find your
next raceAnkle Breakers
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DO keep your eyes open for potholes, bikes, cars, people, construction barricades and other city hazards. Running in the city may be exciting, but it can also be dangerous.
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next racePark It
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DO plan your routes around city-based parks (hello, Central Park!) and other pedestrian-friendly parts of town. You don't want to have to worry about safety during your run.
Find your
next raceFresh Air
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DO get out of the city every once in a while. Your lungs, knees and mind will thank you.
Find your
next raceLost in the Moment
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DON'T completely zone out on your run. While it's great to lose yourself during a run—"45 minutes gone already? Sweet!"—it's not fun to get hit by a car.
Find your
next raceJammin' Out
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DON'T turn your music up full blast. Those cars we mentioned earlier? Their drivers aren't always paying attention, so make sure you take out one earbud in order to know who and what is around you at all times.
Find your
next raceUrban Frogger
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DON'T dart through traffic. Yes, we know your Garmin's still running. Just pause it and wait for the walk signal. Even a dedicated crosswalk can still be dangerous during rush hour traffic—better safe than sorry.
Find your
next raceStop and Go
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DON'T get frustrated if you get hung up at a stoplight. It's gonna happen. Pack some patience, Antsy Nancy. Or better yet, work in some bodyweight squats or lunges—use your "downtime" wisely.
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next raceJoint-Friendly Surfaces
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DON'T run on concrete, if at all possible. If you can find asphalt, pick that over concrete. While grass, dirt and other soft terrains are ideal for running, asphalt is the most forgiving "urban" surface to cover your miles.
Find your
next raceSafety First
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DON'T forgo safety precautions, including your cell phone, a few dollars, your ID and even pepper spray.
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next race
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