Last week I got lost on only two runs out of five.
The most eerie option is the running topographic moron with an irrepressible urge to explore new places. As a bright representative of this species, I’ll try to share my survival experience and advice on what to take with me on a run.
- Always bring your phone.
Of course, fully charged and with a recharge. The phone case, which is attached to the hand, on long distances is uncomfortable, so I use the simplest and lightest belt – SpiBelt. In addition to the phone in an elastic pocket fits all sorts of little things. - Another useful thing – money.
It can take public transportation or a cab, buy water and snacks. It takes minimum space, but it may come in handy. - Water is a must in the heat.
Even if you’re only going to run a decade and almost (!) The whole route is familiar. With our diagnosis tens sometimes turn into twenties, and then the presence of water becomes critical. I use the Fuel Belt, which holds four 210 ml bottles. - Something edible wouldn’t hurt either.
A couple of dates, butterscotch, sports gel – who prefers what. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is a very uncomfortable condition, what runners call “starvation.” Fast carbohydrates or, simply put, sugar can help. And just for no reason eaten toffee gives vivacity. - Write down the address on a piece of paper.
This is for jogging while traveling (you can try to remember the home one). Having the address of the hotel/home/apartment/camping where you are staying increases the chances of getting help from the locals. - Explore the possibilities of gadgets
You can install a navigator on your phone, which even if it doesn’t take you where you need to go, it will at least show your location and help you get oriented. Some sports watches have a Back to Start function (showing the direction and distance to the start point) and even a semblance of a track map. - Take Care of Safety
I take a canister with me, which conveniently attaches to my belt on a clothespin. Just in case I can’t change the dogs’ minds by other means and just in case. Helps build confidence and morale. Although, of course, the most useful skill in this case is running fast. - Learn to orient yourself to the sun
As you start, look at which side the sun is on. The logic is simple – you should go back so that it is on the opposite side. - Study a map of the area.
It is also not superfluous to install it in your phone.
It’s a fact of life: On the map everything looks easier and clearer than on the ground. - Take note of landmarks.
An unusual building, a sign, a fountain, a cafe – it’s easier in the city. In the countryside is more difficult, but you can try too. - Look for simple routes. Options that virtually eliminate the possibility of losing your bearings – long beaches, embankments along the river, country roads with a minimum of turns and junctions, well-marked trails not in our country.