Running is experiencing a huge boom thanks to a new generation that turned to the outdoors to get exercise during the pandemic lockdowns. Demand and participation in marathons and road races are increasing around the world. Running groups are popping up in every neighborhood, and if you have a favorite local path, you may have noticed the increase and felt some crowding.
While it’s great to see others finding the joy of running, not everyone may be aware of etiquette or how to safely share a narrow path. To make trail usage enjoyable for everyone, here are some simple steps you can take.
Know your path: Is your path a shared one for bikes, skaters, walkers, and runners alike? Chicago’s Lakefront trail is split into separate bike and pedestrian lanes to reduce congestion and provide a better overall experience. For safety reasons, runners should not use a path designated for bikes only. Most paved paths are shared with bikes and require an extra degree of caution.
Walkers and joggers should stay all the way to the right, allowing the passing traffic to do so on the left. This is especially important when the trail is shared with bikes.
When coming up behind someone, first look back to see if anyone’s trying to pass you, just like you would check your blind spot when changing lanes while driving. When it’s safe, move to the left and let the person in front of you know you are coming. A simple “on your left” or “passing to the left” can be helpful and give people enough time to react and make room for you to pass.
When running with friends or in a group, no more than two across is acceptable. Three people side-by-side-by-side creates a wall that makes it difficult for others to get around. Similar to running solo, if your group is passing someone, still only pass on the left. Getting “swarmed” on your left and right by faster runners can be an unpleasant and intimidating experience.
Signals are also very helpful. Wait, like turn signals? Yup! Point the way you are turning, so you don’t cut anyone off. Do you see potholes, uneven bumps, or another obstruction? Help out the runner behind you by pointing to it. They may not be able to see it if you are blocking their view, and they would appreciate not tripping!
Need to stop to tie a shoe, catch your breath, chat with a friend, or check a message? Move to the right off of the path before stopping so that you don’t block the way of others coming through. This is also another opportunity to signal. Hold up a hand before moving off to the right so that those behind you aren’t startled by your movement.
If wearing headphones, keep the volume low or only put one earbud in. This helps ensure you can hear what is going on around you or if someone calls out to pass by.
Anticipate the needs of your bodily functions. Always use the bathroom and empty your system before going on a run. Knowing where a public restroom is on your route can also be helpful in case of an unexpected need. Have a runny nose or some phlegm? Watching someone else spit or snot rocket is simply gross. If you don’t have tissues or a bathroom nearby, unfortunately, you may not have other options. If you don’t want to stop, first check over your shoulder to see if there’s anyone behind you. Move to the right and slow down if need be. Lean over and aim towards the ground instead of sideways. Briefly stopping and moving off the path and out of the way is also another way to do it.
Be visible. Starting your runs earlier is a great way to avoid crowds, however, it is important to be visible if running in the dark. Opt for bright or reflective clothing, headlamps, and/or safety lights.
Running with man’s best friend? Obey leash laws and stay tight to your pup’s side. Of course your dog is awesome, but cat people like to run too and expect that not everyone wants a meet-and-greet with your pet.
Keep it clean! Don’t drop gel packets or other litter. If it came from a pocket, the garbage can go back in the same pocket until you find the appropriate receptacle.
When running on the sidewalk or roadside, run against traffic. This helps ensure that oncoming drivers and cyclists can see you, and it keeps you from looking backward.
And what should you do if you see others not following these guidelines? First of all, be kind and treat others the way you would like to be treated. You can be part of the solution and gently share some of these running etiquette points. Lead by example and keep interactions polite, even if others are not. The more of us that use the paths and trails, the greater impact we have on each other.