. >> reporter: sophie lemaer is the founder of tough cookies, a jogging group founded on the theory on trails and roads there's safety in numbers. >> no one's going to attempt anything when you have a group. you can relax, enjoy the run, focus on the workout, and not be constantly on the lookout. >> reporter: what happens if you can't run with a partner? we talked to safety expert jared how to protect yourself on the path. first, ditch the headphones. >> the earlier that i can hear somebody approaching me or that i can see somebody approaching me, then i can respond in a way that's going to give me a better chance to get away to someplace safe. >> reporter: next, avoid baggy clothes and ponytails. >> opt for clothing that's form fitting that doesn't have a hood and opt for hair in a side braid or a low ponytail or tucked up and underneath your cap. makes it more difficult for somebody to grab ahold of you and drag you into the bushes or take you down to the ground. >> reporter: finally, be prepared to fight back. taking even one self-defense class can seriously increase your safety. yo

. >> reporter: sophie lemaer is the founder of tough cookies, a jogging group founded on the theory on trails and roads there's safety in numbers. >> no one's going to attempt anything when you have a group. you can relax, enjoy the run, can't run with a partner? we talked to safety expert jared arthur who gave us a few tips on how to protect yourself on the path. first, ditch the headphones. >> the earlier that i can hear somebody approaching me or that i can see somebody approaching me, then i can respond in a way that's going to give me a better chance to get away to someplace safe. >> reporter: next, avoid baggy clothes and ponytails. >> opt for clothing that's form fitting that doesn't have a hood and opt for hair in a side braid or a low ponytail or makes it more difficult for somebody to grab ahold of you and drag you into the bushes or take you down to the ground. >> reporter: finally, be prepared to fight back. taking even one self-defense class can seriously increase your safety. you learn how to be better prepared, to pay attention to your surroundings and so listen to your