What began as a straightforward run vlog took an unexpected turn. In a now-famous TikTok, runner Samantha Mac @sageandmaize documents what was intended to be an 8-mile run that started off fun but swiftly morphed into a chilling experience—one that many women running alone face all too often.
She begins, “Good morning, it is 42 degrees, let’s go for an 8-mile run.” Following a brief “fit check,” she provides updates at every mile, reporting on her progress. “Mile one: My lungs are struggling a little bit because of the cold air, but I feel great otherwise.” By mile two, she notes her training for an upcoming half marathon, and by mile four, she shares her playlist, maintaining an upbeat demeanor throughout.
However, by mile five, the atmosphere shifts dramatically. A noticeable change occurs in her tone and demeanor. Instead of facing the camera, she starts looking around. Her voice betrays fear.
“There’s this guy in a red car who’s driven by me twice,” she reveals, her voice quivering. “It’s making me really nervous.”
@sageandmaizePSA trust your gut 🙂♬ original sound – samantha mac
Viewers may draw unsettling parallels between Samantha’s run and the 8-mile run that Eliza Fletcher tragically did not complete.
Samantha goes on to explain that the unsettling driver has now parked at the end of her running route, blocking her path back to her car. As he starts to leave the parking spot, she tearfully approaches a nearby neighbor, asking to wait in his yard for her parents to pick her up. In another moment, she’s heard discussing options with the police about carrying pepper spray and whether bear spray would be a better alternative.
“It’s just one of those things where it’s like, you don’t think it’s going to happen to you… until it happens to you,” she shares in her video.
Fortunately, Samantha is safe, though she didn’t finish her run. Tragically, others haven’t been as lucky. Eliza Fletcher did not complete her run, nor did Mollie Tibbets, or countless other women who have ventured out for a run alone.
In Samantha’s circumstance, it might have been nothing—but it also could have been serious. Trusting her instincts led Samantha to call her parents for a ride and find a place of safety until help arrived.
I, too, can relate to Samantha’s experience as a runner. I’ve retraced my steps, paused my music to listen for footsteps behind me, monitored the side mirrors of passing cars, committed license plate numbers to memory, and wasted mental energy on runs meant to help me clear my mind. I’ve sprinted home, relieved, yet still anxious.
This is a shared reality for many women: the pervasive feeling of insecurity while going about daily activities, whether exercising, running errands, or traveling.
Samantha’s TikTok has received over 2.4 million views, reflecting the everyday fears women face.
“Following a gut feeling saved my life at a rest stop. Always trust that feeling, you’re never overreacting,” commented TikTok user Mommy Farmer.
“Every woman has felt this to varying degrees. We all recognize that gut feeling. Ugh,” wrote user Jera Bean.
“Smart girl. This makes me cry. I have felt your fear, and I’m glad you’re safe,” said Natasha Jade.
Yet, for many of us, including myself, running serves as a vital outlet. It’s what we do to feel our best, to escape or confront our thoughts. It remains a pursuit we embrace regardless of the risks we may face.
I could list numerous safety measures to consider while running, such as going with a buddy, carrying a personal alarm, or having bear spray on hand. It’s wise to inform a loved one of your route, keep your location services on, and remain vigilant of your surroundings.
Nevertheless, none of these precautions matter if you don’t listen to your instincts. The real key to safety while running lies in the willingness to heed your fears, to alter your route, cut your run short, or call family for assistance.
Image Source: Konstantin Savusia / Shutterstock
