You put on your shoes, you go for a run – it’s that simple. Still, there are issues: Where should you run? How do you pass? Should you wave? Knowing what to do – and not do – means you won’t annoy your fellow runners, or get hurt.
FACE THE TRAFFIC
When you’re running on the road, run on the right side.
HIT THE FOOTPATH
Unless laws prohibit it, runners are considered pedestrians and may run on footpath as protection from traffic.
USE THE CROSSING
I’ve heard of several accidents in which runners were struck by vehicles – the majority of which occurred when the runner was not using the crossing.
MAKE A PASS
On running paths, stay to the left and pass on the right. If you’re on a trail with no room to overtake another runner, wait 30 seconds then ask to slip by. In a race, pass on either side of a runner ahead of you.
GO WITH THE FLOW
On a trail, follow the travel pattern, typically posted near the trailhead or parking area. If none exists and the trail is shared with cyclists, go with the traffic flow.
KEEP YOUR DOG CLOSE
If you run with Rex, keep him close by, on a tight leash, and move to the side so runners can pass without interruption.
CIRCLE THE TRACK
The normal rotation on a track is counterclockwise, but look for regulations; some reverse directions every other day.
DEFER TO FAST FOLKS
On a recreational path or trail, simply move to the side to let them through. If you’re on a track, stick to the outside lanes.
WAVE IF YOU WANT
Some runners prefer to zone out during a run and not focus on anyone, but others tell me they feel energised when they wave and like the sense of camaraderie a greeting provides.
