Gaëlle Appert’s journey highlights the resilience of women overcoming fears related to personal safety while jogging. After her assault, she chooses busier routes to feel secure. In Lille, women have created a WhatsApp group, ‘Les BGEES,’ to share running plans and ensure mutual safety. This community approach fosters empowerment, encouraging women to reclaim public spaces and run confidently, even at night, while organizations support group runs in designated areas for added security.
Overcoming Fear: Gaëlle Appert’s Journey
For Gaëlle Appert, each stride she takes signifies a triumph. After facing an unimaginable ordeal four years ago during a jog, she has returned to running. Following her assault, she is now cautious about venturing into secluded areas, opting instead for busier spots. “It’s calming and reassuring. There are always people walking their dogs, fellow joggers, and traffic, which makes me feel secure. I enjoy my little route close to home that allows me to run with peace of mind,” she shares.
Empowering Women through Community Safety
Reflecting on her experience, Gaëlle recalls the terrifying moment on March 30, 2021, when a car followed her on a lonely path. “Suddenly, I was face-to-face with a stranger—tall, heavyset, and intimidating. He blocked my path and grabbed my arm. I thought, ‘This is it, I’m going to die,'” she recounts. Sadly, she is not alone in her fears; studies indicate that nine out of ten women feel unsafe while jogging.
In response, a group of women near Lille has devised a clever solution to enhance their safety. They communicate their running plans through a WhatsApp group known as ‘Les BGEES’ (BodyGuard Entre ElleS). “Before I head out for a run lasting around 40-45 minutes, I notify them of my route,” explains Anne-Sophie Genouvrier, another member of the group. This simple act of sharing departure and return times fosters a sense of security among the runners.
In times of distress, the women in the group are always ready to assist. “We are familiar with her routine and check in on her after the allotted time,” says Jo Guilmain. Despite these precautions, they still avoid jogging alone in dimly lit areas or during the evening. Many, including those in urban areas like Île-de-France, prefer running in groups to enhance their safety.
Organizations have begun offering group runs in designated areas, particularly during nighttime. “Running alone at night by the canal can be frightening due to the sparse crowd. Being part of a group elevates our safety and reminds us that we too deserve to enjoy public spaces—be it at night, in the morning, or throughout the day,” asserts Emmanuella Nsay, an ambassador for Sine Qua Non in Pantin.
This community-driven approach empowers women to reclaim the streets, allowing them to run freely and safely, no matter the time or location.