Safety fears stop nearly one in three UK adults exercising outdoors alone

Nearly half of 18–24-year-olds say safety concerns have prevented them from exercising outdoors by themselves

New research from Snap Fitness has revealed the extent to which concerns about personal safety are affecting people’s running routines, with almost one in three UK adults (32%) saying they have been stopped from exercising outdoors alone because they felt unsafe.

The figure rises to almost half (49%) among 18–24-year-olds, while women are also more likely to be affected, with 37% saying safety concerns have stopped them running outdoors alone, compared with 28% of men.

The findings come ahead of the clocks going back on the 25th of October, when shorter daylight hours can make fitting outdoor exercise around work, family and other commitments more challenging.

Snap Fitness says the research highlights the importance of making sure people have different ways to stay active and feel supported, whether that means exercising indoors, training with a friend or getting involved in a local fitness group.

Andy Carr, Fitness Experience Manager for Snap Fitness EMEA, commented:

“Exercise should make you feel good, but if you don’t feel safe heading out on your own then that can very quickly become a reason not to exercise at all.

“What really struck me about these findings is just how many people have felt they’ve had to change their plans because they weren’t comfortable exercising outdoors alone. Among younger adults, that’s almost one in two people, which is a huge number.

“With the evenings getting darker, we want people to know there are other options. You might feel happier training indoors, heading out with a friend or joining a local running club. Sometimes just knowing you’re not doing it alone can make a big difference.

“Ultimately, exercise has to work for you. It shouldn’t feel intimidating or something you have to push yourself into. The more we can help people feel supported, comfortable and part of a community, the easier it is to keep moving and enjoy how exercise makes you feel.”

One way Snap Fitness is helping to create those options is through its Run Clubs, which give people the chance to run, jog or walk as part of a group rather than heading out alone.

Snap Fitness Run Clubs are open to both members and non-members and follows an accessible 5km format, with participants encouraged to go at their own pace while connecting with others in their local community.

Carr continued:

“For some people, just knowing there are others around can make heading out for a run or walk feel that bit easier.

“Run clubs aren’t about pace or being the fastest person there. They’re about getting out, moving together and having a bit of support around you. That can make a real difference, especially if you wouldn’t feel as comfortable going out on your own.

“Running is a great way to boost your energy and clear your head and doing it with other people can make it feel more enjoyable and easier to stick with. Sometimes that sense of community is all you need to get started and keep going.”

To find your nearest Snap Fitness Run Club, visit:
https://www.snapfitness.com/ie/gyms/sligo/run-club