Perth fitness fans are being offered help to stay safe while jogging after dark.
As the clocks go back and nights draw in, local leisure provider Live Active has teamed up with Jog Scotland to encourage locals to “chummy up” when they take to the streets.
A Jog Scotland group based in Perth meets every Wednesday at 6.30pm, with participants leaving from Bell’s Sports Centre to follow a series of routes in and around the city. Tayside Police believes that running together is a great way to stay safe and give joggers the confidence to continue through the winter months.
Sergeant Douglas Pover from Tayside Police Safety Community Unit in Perth said, “If you’re jogging outside in the dark, it’s safer in groups, such as Jog Scotland, which is the national recreational running programme.
“With regard to personal safety, it’s also important to be aware of road safety and to wear reflective clothing. Keep to well-lit routes where possible and always make sure your mobile phone is charged.”
Bell’s Sports Centre is one of 14 local sports and leisure venues operated by Live Active Leisure and it established the successful jogging group more than seven years ago.
It attracts both males and females of all ages and has grown steadily over the years, continuing to encourage adults of all abilities from complete beginners to more advanced runners.
Live Active Leisure’s Karen Taylor said, “New members are always welcome and if you’re not quite ready to take the plunge immediately, our new block that commences in January could be just the thing to kick start those New Year’s resolutions.”
For more information on Jog Scotland, contact Bell’s Sports Centre on 01738 492460.
Photo used under a Creative Commons licence courtesy of Flickr user Josiah Mackenzie.