For many women, running should be an opportunity to clear their minds, focus on fitness, and enjoy the outdoors. However, it’s often overshadowed by the fear and reality of harassment. Stories of women being catcalled, beeped at, followed, or subjected to inappropriate comments while running are, unfortunately, all too common. Recently, in my area, there have also been several reports of flashing, which adds another layer of distress to what should be an empowering experience.
A survey by the University of Manchester found that over two-thirds of women (68%) had experienced some form of harassment while running, yet few incidents are reported to the police. This highlights a societal problem that needs urgent attention. Globally, the statistics are just as alarming.
The psychological impact of harassment is profound and long-lasting. For many women, it instills a fear of vulnerability in public spaces, leading to anxiety and self-doubt. What should be a freeing activity becomes fraught with unease, forcing women to modify their behaviour—avoiding certain routes, carrying safety devices, or only running in groups. This emotional burden strips away the joy and simplicity of running, turning it into a calculated act of self-preservation.
Harassment women face while running
Women runners frequently deal with verbal abuse, wolf whistles, and unwanted attention. The issue becomes even more pronounced during darker months, when many have no choice but to run early in the morning or in the evening. Experiences such as being followed by vehicles, having people run alongside to intimidate, or receiving inappropriate comments about appearance are unsettling and, in some cases, traumatic.
This kind of harassment can force women to change their routines. Some avoid running altogether, while others opt for gyms or join group runs to feel safer. While group running offers support and security, it’s disheartening that women must go to such lengths to feel safe doing something as simple as going for a run.
Positive steps to support women runners
Addressing this issue requires both cultural change and immediate practical solutions. Whilst these actions don’t solve the underlying problem, they can help create safer environments for women runners and provide some reassurance while the broader societal issues are being tackled:
Promote group runs
Joining an all-women running group, such as These Girls Run or local community clubs, can provide a sense of security. Running in a group can help deter harassment and gives women a supportive community.
Encourage the use of safety tools
Apps and devices like tracking features on smartwatches, personal alarms, or safety lights can offer some reassurance. For example, apps like Find my friend or Strava Beacon allow runners to share their live location with trusted friends or family.
Educate communities
Raising awareness about the impact of catcalling and harassment is important. Local initiatives can encourage respectful behaviour and challenge cultural norms that enable harassment. Men, in particular, need to be part of these conversations to understand how their actions can intimidate and harm others.
Highlight unsafe areas
Encourage women to report unsafe areas using tools like the StreetSafe website or app, which allows authorities to address problem zones by increasing lighting or police presence.
Lean on local support networks
Communities can create safe running programs or “buddy systems,” where runners can pair up or join others for support. Local running groups can partner with the police to improve safety and open communication.
Log and Report Harassment
Women should feel empowered to report any harassment they experience. In cases of harassment or threatening behaviour, incidents can be logged via the non-emergency number 101 or through online reporting tools, ensuring that each incident is recorded and addressed appropriately.
What men can do to help women feel safe
Many men may not realise how their actions can unintentionally contribute to women feeling unsafe while running. Here are some simple, thoughtful actions men can take to help:
- Give space: If you’re running or walking behind a woman, try to give plenty of space or make your presence known calmly (e.g., say “passing on your left”). Avoid startling her by approaching silently or too closely.
- Be aware of your actions: Think twice about shouting encouragement or compliments at women you don’t know. Even if it’s well-meaning, it can feel intrusive or intimidating.
- Speak out against harassment: If you witness catcalling or other inappropriate behaviour, safely call it out or intervene if it’s appropriate to do so.
- Support awareness campaigns: Share and engage with initiatives which focus on empowering women and addressing harassment in sports and outdoor activities.
- Talk to friends: Start conversations with friends, family, and colleagues about how to respect and support women in public spaces. Challenge harmful attitudes or jokes that normalise harassment.
By making small changes in behavior and actively supporting a culture of respect, men can contribute to making running—and public spaces in general—safer and more welcoming for everyone.
A call for change
Women should not have to adapt their routines or live in fear to enjoy running. This is an issue that requires collective effort to address. While tools, groups, and awareness campaigns provide immediate solutions, the ultimate goal must be to create a world where women can run freely—day or night—without fear of harassment.
Let’s work together to ensure that running remains a source of empowerment, not fear.
