Runners and cyclists must insure devices

Image courtesy of Sura Nualpradid/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net

"Anyone who takes their exercise seriously likes to know how they're doing, how far they went, and how fast they did it. Heart rate monitors, GPS devices and smart phones with exercise-monitoring applications have therefore become our exercise companions of choice," says John October, spokesperson for Dial Direct Insurance.

"Equipped with features for tracking and analysing progress, they don't come cheap. In fact, a decent, GPS-enabled heart rate monitor can cost anywhere in the region of R1,000 to R6,000. Carrying these devices strapped to arms or waists when cycling or running on the road comes with the risk of them being snatched. Like your other valuable portable possessions, make sure they are insured," cautions October.

Common misconception

Alarmingly, despite the fact that street and public robberies showed a marked increase during the course of last year, a number of people still don't insure their portable valuables. "There's a common misconception that exercise buddies will be automatically insured under a home contents policy. This isn't the case. You have to notify your insurer to include valuables that you carry around with you under the portable possessions or all-risks section of your policy. Never assume that they're automatically covered," advises October.

Portable Possessions cover allows you to claim for items you usually carry around with you every day, which have been stolen, lost or damaged as a result of an insured peril. This includes jewellery, cellphones, and other personal items like clothing. "Make sure that your heart rate monitor, cellphone or GPS device is specified on your insurance policy. If they are lost or stolen away from home, and you did not specify them, you will not enjoy cover," says October.

Additional safety tips when exercising outdoors are:

• Run or cycle in a group - there is safety in numbers.
  
• Stick to busier roads - avoid running alone in unpopulated, unfamiliar areas.
  
• Do not wear jewellery - this is tempting eye-candy for thieves.
  
• Always trust your intuition - if you're unsure about a person or a place, avoid it.
  
• Tell somebody where you are going - leave word at home about where you plan to go and how long you plan to be out.
  
• Strap cell phones and other devices securely to yourself - ideally, try to carry them so that they are not easily visible to would-be thieves.