In recent years, the spotlight has shone more brightly on women’s challenges in various aspects of their lives. Still, one issue that is underrepresented is the harassment women face while engaging in outdoor activities like running. A recent report, initiated by The University of Manchester, uncovers alarming statistics. The majority of women who take up running, either as a hobby or part of their fitness routine, are subjected to some form of abuse. This startling finding underscores the urgent need to address these societal dangers that deter women from pursuing activities freely and safely.

The Research: A Groundbreaking Study

The study, commissioned by The University of Manchester, takes a deep dive into the experiences of women across the UK. Surveying over 2,000 women from varying age groups, ethnic backgrounds, and geographic locations, the research paints a bleak picture of the routine abuse women face. While many might imagine running as a solitary and peaceful activity, it is anything but that for most women. More than half of the participants reported facing some form of abuse or harassment while running. Ranging from catcalling and unwanted attention to more serious incidents of physical intimidation and even assault.

One of the most concerning aspects of the research is the pervasiveness of these incidents across all regions. Whether in urban environments, suburban settings, or rural areas, the common denominator remains distressingly clear: women face abuse, regardless of location, and are vulnerable to abuse simply because they dare to run in public spaces.

Key Findings from the Study:

• Catcalling and verbal harassment: The most frequently reported form of abuse, experienced by over 60% of respondents. Many women describe being subjected to derogatory comments, unsolicited remarks about their appearance, or lewd gestures from male onlookers.
• Physical intimidation: Approximately 25% of participants reported feeling physically threatened while running. This included being followed, approached aggressively, or having their personal space invaded.
• Assault and physical abuse: In more severe cases, some women reported being grabbed or attacked while running. Leading to deep psychological trauma and fear of continuing their routine.

The Psychological Toll of Harassment

The emotional and psychological repercussions of such harassment are profound and long-lasting. Many women confessed that the constant fear of being harassed alters their running habits. Some admitted they no longer run alone. While others have changed their routes or only run during daylight hours to avoid potential danger. Sadly, a significant number of women reported that they had stopped running altogether because the harassment became too overwhelming.

For many, running is more than just a form of exercise. It is a way to unwind, destress, and connect with nature. However, these moments of peace are frequently shattered by the intrusive actions of strangers. The consistent harassment not only discourages women from running but can also lead to feelings of helplessness, anxiety, and frustration. The mental health toll is severe, as women feel they must always be on high alert. Scanning their surroundings for potential threats instead of enjoying the freedom that running should offer.

The Gendered Nature of Public Spaces

At the heart of the issue lies the broader problem of how women are perceived in public spaces. Public harassment is deeply rooted in societal attitudes that view women’s bodies as open for commentary, objectification, and, in some cases, violation. While men also face harassment when running, the scale and nature of abuse experienced by women are far more pervasive and violent.

The lack of adequate lighting on running routes, the scarcity of visible security personnel, and the absence of dedicated spaces for women to exercise safely exacerbate the risks. Public harassment is not just about individuals making harmful choices but about a societal structure that has long failed to prioritise women’s safety.

Running as a Political Act

In recent years, a growing number of women have begun to view their decision to run as an act of defiance. By occupying public spaces and refusing to be driven away by harassment, women runners are sending a powerful message. They have a right to exist in these spaces without fear. This shift in perception represents a growing movement to reclaim public spaces for women. Pushing back against the culture of fear that has long limited their freedom.

Numerous running groups have emerged with the specific goal of creating a safe, supportive environment for women. These groups often run together in large numbers, making it less likely that individual runners will be targeted by harassers. Some have even started self-defence classes designed for women runners, equipping them with the skills to fend off potential attackers. These grassroots movements are empowering women to stand up for their rights, but the fact that such measures are even necessary speaks volumes about the current state of public safety.

The Role of Bystanders: A Need for Collective Responsibility

One of the more sobering revelations of the study is the passive role bystanders often play in these situations. Even in cases where women reported experiencing overt harassment, they noted that passersby frequently failed to intervene. In many instances, people simply looked the other way, allowing the harassment to continue unchecked.

This speaks to a broader cultural issue: the normalisation of gender-based harassment. Many bystanders may not recognise the severity of the situation, dismissing it as “harmless fun” or thinking it’s “none of their business.” However, by failing to intervene or even express disapproval, bystanders unwittingly contribute to an environment where harassment is accepted as part of the status quo.

Organisations advocating for women’s safety have long emphasised the importance of active bystander intervention. Whether it’s a simple verbal confrontation, an offer to walk with the runner, or reporting the harasser, these small acts of solidarity can make a significant difference in preventing further abuse and providing emotional support to the victim.

Addressing the Problem: What Can Be Done?

The findings from this research are a wake-up call, urging both policymakers and the general public to confront the issue head-on. While some progress has been made in recent years to raise awareness about harassment in public spaces, much more needs to be done to ensure the safety and well-being of women runners. Several key strategies could help address this pressing issue:

1. Improved Urban Design

City planners and local authorities must prioritise women’s safety when designing public spaces. This includes better lighting on running routes, increased police patrols, and the establishment of more gender-sensitive public spaces. The creation of safe running zones with security features can provide women with a greater sense of comfort and freedom.

2. Education and Awareness Campaigns

Public awareness campaigns focused on the dangers and illegality of street harassment are essential. Such campaigns should target not only potential harassers but also encourage bystander intervention. Social media, public advertisements, and community programs can be powerful tools for challenging the cultural norms that perpetuate harassment.

3. Legal Reforms

Harassment in public spaces often goes unpunished due to lax enforcement of existing laws or the absence of specific legislation targeting street harassment. Stricter laws and penalties should be implemented to hold perpetrators accountable, while law enforcement must be trained to handle cases of harassment sensitively and effectively.

4. Encouraging Safe Running Groups

While women should not have to rely on others for their safety, the establishment of running groups and communities can offer a protective barrier against harassment. These groups create a collective sense of solidarity and allow women to support one another, making it less likely that individuals will be targeted.

5. Self-Defense Training

Although the onus should never be on women to defend themselves from harassment. Self-defence training can provide an additional layer of security. Many women runners have found that learning basic self-defence moves helps boost their confidence and gives them a sense of control in potentially dangerous situations.

6. SafeWalk by SafeKab

SafeWalk allows you to share your run with a loved one so they can keep an eye on your journey every step of the way. We have also developed a ‘panic button’ that stays on your phone screen. So should you feel threatened you can press the button and notify both the local SafeKab office and a loved one that you need help. With our FREE SafeWalk function, you need never run alone ever again!

SafeWalk is completely free to use for anyone who downloads the app! It’s a fantastic tool for students, schools, families, lone women, and anyone who might feel vulnerable while running or travelling alone anywhere in the UK. Download the app now