When you are out walking or jogging for exercise, it can be very easy to get lost in your own world of thought. You may feel you're safe because of the particular neighborhood that you're in, or because you're not carrying money or valuables. As the number of people engaging in walking and jogging for exercise increases, so does the number of attacks perpetrated on them. It is very important to be aware of your surroundings while jogging or walking. It is far too easy to get into the groove of your stride, thinking about how much further you need to go, what you need to accomplish for the day once your done. We all know how easy it is to get so engrossed in your thoughts, that you become unaware of everything around you.

If you are out jogging or walking, try to follow these important tips to ensure your safety.

Jog or walk in well-lit, busy areas

Jog or walk with a companion

Do not use headphones while jogging or walking

Do not jog or walk near bushes where an assailant could be hiding

Be wary of people asking for directions

Consider carrying some kind of self-defense item

One particular item that is great to carry while jogging or walking is MACE brand walking weights. Many joggers and walkers carry hand weights anyway to enhance their workout. These weights are one pound each and have a small compartment to carry keys and money. More importantly, they have a replaceable canister of pepper spray. While awareness of your surroundings and the other tips I mentioned are paramount, carrying something like these weights is both convenient and could potentially be a life-saver. Hopefully, you'll never have to utilize the pepper spray component, and only get to use them for the purpose of having stylish weights to enhance your exercise. But, should you ever encounter someone who is bent on attacking you, regardless of the safety measures you take, these weights will give you an advantage that fool never saw coming.