Number of women abused while running “not surprising” says Weymouth running group
Runners in Dorset often experience verbal abuse, catcalling and even flashing while out on a ‘peaceful’ jog
Last updated 25th Feb 2024
Female runners in Weymouth tell us they have been beeped at, followed and even verbally abused on their solo run.
A new report by Manchester University found 7 in 10 women experienced some form of abuse whilst out running.
Alice Hall, part of The Running Girls in Weymouth, told us: “The findings are pretty shocking but actually it's not that surprising.
“Most of the runs I go on, I do experience some form of harassment even if its on a low-level but sadly I feel like it’s been normalised and many women, like me, just try and ignore it.
“It's actually really disappointing that this is the way society is and this is what we have to go through.”
A significant number of those surveyed admitted to being followed, flashed, beeped at, physically and/or sexually assaulted as well as other intimidating behaviours including having objects thrown at them from vehicles or having their path blocked.
Alice Hall said: “When I went out alone today, I had someone that thought it was funny to shout something at me and another guy beeped his horn, so it’s definitely something that happens which is such a shame because everyone should be able to exercise and feel safe to do so.”
According to the report, 82% of survey respondents said they had concerns about their personal safety whilst out running.
In response to these fears, women undertake a series of measures to make themselves feel safer, including decisions over when and where to run alone.
Safety experts have recommended women carry items such as keys, personal alarms and sprays in order to defend themselves should they need to.
Alice Hall added: Unfortunately, we should carry something with us but we should also have something like a tracking device or a phone so people know where you are and you can contact people quickly should you need to.”