It is still dark outside. The city is quiet, except for the soft rhythm of your shoes hitting the pavement and the sound of your breath. You know the route by heart, the familiar hills, the smells, and the sting of the morning chill. Training for a marathon means many such mornings, where commitment is measured in kilometres, not coffee cups.
With the Cape Town Marathon just two weeks away, the tapering process has begun. Bodies are often tired after weeks of hard training, and this is when accidents are most likely to happen. Fatigue creeps in, focus slips, and one small misstep can have big consequences. Most runners have taken a tumble at some point, whether on uneven roads, wet surfaces, or cats-eyes. Sometimes it is just a bruise, sometimes it is much more serious.
Running injuries are more common than most realise. Global studies show that between 40 and 50 per cent of runners will be injured at some point during training. The lower limbs, particularly the knees, ankles, and shins, bear the brunt of the damage. Not all running incidents involve overuse or strain; in South Africa, collisions with vehicles are also a growing concern, particularly in low-light conditions.
When accidents occur, quick access to medical information can be the difference between a minor incident and a serious situation. That is where CrisisOnCall becomes your unseen running partner.
“CrisisOnCall’s wristband ensures that first responders have all the necessary details at their fingertips. This peace of mind is invaluable,” says Ruan Vermaak, CrisisOnCall Communication Manager. Each wristband is linked to a secure database containing essential medical and emergency contact information, accessible nationwide. Whether you are training in Cape Town, tackling a trail run in Mpumalanga, or racing through the streets of Johannesburg, help is never far away.
CrisisOnCall operates nationwide, connecting members to an integrated emergency response network. Their trained professionals coordinate with paramedics, hospitals, and your loved ones, serving as your voice when you do not have one. The service offers several package options designed to suit different lifestyles, ensuring that safety does not stop when the stopwatch does.
Safety tips to keep in mind
- Be visible. Reflective gear and headlamps are vital in early morning or evening runs.
- Tell someone your route. Share your planned distance, time, and return estimate.
- Listen smartly. Music is motivating, but keep one ear open for traffic and surroundings.
- Run defensively. Assume drivers have not seen you. Stay alert, especially near corners and crossings.
- Know when to stop. Persistent pain is your body’s early warning system, not a challenge to overcome.
As the Cape Town Marathon approaches, remember that preparation is not only about endurance. It is also about safety. Whether it is your first 10 km or your fifth marathon, accidents can happen when you least expect them. CrisisOnCall ensures that when they do, you are never alone.
Running might be a solo sport, but safety should never be.
To learn more about CrisisOnCall and their services, please visit their website at: https://www.crisisoncall.co.za/.
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