RUNNING ETIQUETTE

In training and in races we have to share the road! Follow these suggestions based on common courtesy:

· Share the Sidewalk. This one is just common courtesy. As irate walkers will remind us, we don’t own the sidewalk. If you’re running with a partner or with the TNT group, it’s a good idea to run single file when approaching others. Let people know you are coming up from behind. "On your left/right," or "Behind you," are great watchwords. Of course "Excuse me!" is fine too.

· Share the Path. When running on the dirt path along Ocean Blvd., run no more than two abreast. Four people running in a 2x2 formation can hear better than the same group running in a 4x1 formation.

· Share the Road. When they run on the road, runners tend to move away from the curb, where the ground is flatter. However, that puts drivers in the awkward position of hugging the center line to avoid hitting you. Stay as close as you can to the sidewalk. If you’re running on the road you should run against traffic.

· Share the Road, Pt. 2. Be aware of bicyclists. As a general rule, you should let them pass to your left if you’re traveling in the same direction. Most experienced riders will call "On your left," to let you know they’re coming. You don’t need to jump to the side, just move in a little if you can. If you’re running in a bike lane, give cyclists enough room to pass safely. They might not have enough time to warn you and you don’t want to force them into a traffic lane.

· Whoa! If you need to tie your shoe, or stop for any reason, move to the side of the road before kneeling down. People coming up behind you are still moving and if you stop in front of them, you may collide.

· Avoid a Gooey Situation. All of us sweat, but often you may need to deal with other fluids as well. If you need to spit, move to the side of the road and do it there. Try to watch for other runners behind you. Do your best to plan ahead for the bathroom breaks.

· Don’t Litter. Another no-brainer. If you have to dump something—even something biodegradable like a half-eaten energy bar—hold it until you can find a trash can.

· Say “Hi!” We may ignore people at work, school, and the supermarket, but on the road most runners will say "Hi," wave, or at least jiggle their eyebrows as they pass each other. It’s one of the nicer things about running. Experienced runners are masters of the three-second, Doppler rush conversation.

· Thank your Aid Station Volunteers! Every weekend, you’ll have volunteers or mentors situated somewhere along our workout route with water, energy drinks, pretzels and other goodies on hand. Remember that these items are donated by the mentors themselves to make sure all of you are hydrated and energized during your workouts, so make sure to thank them for their time and efforts!

The etiquette for runners is not limited to what has been posted here. Common sense dictates the vast majority of rules for running etiquette. Please ask a mentor or coach if you have any questions.

Thanks to Red Figueroa for the handout!