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OHANNESBURG offers visiting joggers the opportunity to run along some fantastic routes in an outdoor-friendly climate. There's no shortage of jogger-friendly parks, and you'll find yourself running in plenty of good company. But before you start pounding the tracks, there are some precautions you should consider taking to ensure you enjoy the experience:

Even JMPD Chief Chris Ngcobo enjoys jogging along the streets of Joburg

 If you choose to run when the sun is high, wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a cap. The African sun can be very harsh on those who don't respect it. And don't be fooled by slightly cloudy days either - some of the worst sunburn happens when you think you're safe.

As in many other major cities, take precautions against muggers when going jogging along the streets:

Try to run with at least one other person; a group of people is the ideal. Don't carry valuables like cellphones (mobile phones) and wallets. If you can't venture out minus your cellphone, keep it hidden from view.

Make sure that there's someone who knows the route you plan to run, and how long you expect to be.

Where possible, run on the sidewalks rather than the roads. Sidewalks are of varying quality, and you often have to skirt around obstacles ranging from parked cars to elaborate sidewalk gardens, so this is easier said than done. But Johannesburg drivers can be a reckless lot, and it's best to minimise your risk.

Wear brightly coloured clothing that will make you visible to other road users. Run facing the oncoming traffic.

If you wish to do your own thing and don't have a pre-planned route and are unfamiliar with the area that you wish to jog in ask the hotel staff for information about running there. Maybe they can suggest a route for you to follow.

Emmarentia Dam/ Johannesburg Botanical Garden
Louw Geldenhuys and Olifants Roads, Emmarentia

Emmarentia Dam is probably the top spot to go running

Probably the top spot to go running, with various well marked, paved tracks. The botanical garden scenery is magnificent, the area is big enough to test the most ardent fitness nut, and there are usually plenty of people - just avoid the less populated areas. Parking is available inside the park, and there are car guards on duty. Only downside: it's out in the west, perhaps a little out of reach of the major hotels.

Zoo Lake
Lower Park Drive, Parkview
Conveniently close to the Rosebank hotels, the Zoo Lake offers joggers the opportunity to run round and round a small lake. Nicely shaded with good trees. Generally well populated in the late afternoons; just keep a lookout for over-eager local dogs. Parking available, informally watched over by car guards.

Wemmer Pan, one the popular spots for jogging in Joburg

Wemmer Pan
Turf Street, La Rochelle (no signs for entrances, which are to your left, so keep your eyes open)
Wemmer Pan is the best place to run in the far south of Johannesburg, alongside a sizeable dam. There is ample parking available, although some of it is unguarded. The grounds are not that big, but the dam is, making for a pleasant view while running.

Rhodes Park
Corner Marathon Street and Langerman Drive, Kensington
On the south-eastern flank of Johannesburg, an old park built around a small lake. Best to run there on weekends, as the park can be underused during the week. Parking available at various entrances, some of them watched over by guards. Main downside: the ground in some places tends to be marshy, and you'll be competing for space with a great many geese.

Innesfree Park
Katherine Street, Strathavon (Sandton) (travelling towards Eastgate on Katherine, look out for the Barloworld sign on your right as you head up a hill. Turn there and keep right)
Innesfree Park is the green space closest to the centre of Sandton, where most of the big hotels are located. There is no formal parking area, although there is ample space to park and there is no security. Most of the ground is open, which is helpful if you are thinking about security.

Delta Park
Road number 3, Victory Park
Delta Park was once the site of a sewerage farm, but is now a lush green expanse in the north west of the city. Parking is available and there is security too. The country-like scene is possibly for those joggers in the mood for a bit of a challenge because the terrain is hilly and given Johannesburg's high altitude it could be too much for those who are not that fit. There are no paths to follow and running at Delta Park could be considered to be cross-country running.

Pieter Roos Park
Empire Road, Parktown
Nearest park to the inner city, and popular with the residents of Hillbrow, who use its cleverly-designed facilities, all made of huge wooden logs, as an outdoor public gym. Unfenced and with no parking facilities; suitable for the street-wise.

Field and Study Recreation Centre
Louise Avenue, Parkmore
A peaceful place, with a feel of the country in the city, the Field and Study Recreation Centre is within easy reach of Sandton. There is lots of parking available and security is provided at the entrance. There are no clear paths to follow so vigilance should be maintained should you choose to wander close to the river.

Old Parktonian Association Sports Club
Jan Smuts Avenue, Randburg
Join the runners at Old Parks on Tuesday and Thursday evenings - at no cost. The race starts at 17:45 from the pavilion and you will be given a time at the end of the run by one of the facilitators. Distances vary: 4.5 or 8 kilometres and there are markings to guide you along the route. Parking is available at the club and you are able to leave your car keys with a facilitator for safe keeping while you enjoy the run.