Running with a group has numerous benefits, especially when running long distances. The miles go a lot faster when you’re talking with other runners, and it’s always nice to know someone has got your back if you hit a rough spot. But group running also requires that you follow some basic etiquette and behavior rules. Here’s advice on running etiquette for group running, so you can stay safe and don’t annoy your fellow runners:
Leave your headphones and dogs at home.
Sure, music helps push some runners along, but it’s anti-social to wear headphones during a group run. It can also be dangerous because listening to music means you’ll be less aware of your surroundings and you won’t be able to hear instructions from other runners in your group.
And, while your dog may be friendly and an excellent runner, he may make other runners nervous and uncomfortable. Promise your dog you’ll take him running during some of your solo runs.
Don’t jingle.
Running with coins or keys in your pocket may not bother you, but you can bet that it will annoy at least one person in your group. You don’t want to become known as, “The Annoying Loose Change Guy (or Gal).”
Be punctual.
Show up early or on-time for the start of runs. It’s not fair to the people who make an effort to get there on time that they have to wait for late-comers.
Establish some rules upfront.
Make sure everyone agrees to a certain set of rules before you head out. For example, do you wait for those who have to stop to go to the bathroom, or does the person who stops have to catch up? If everyone knows the basic rules beforehand, it will avoid possible conflicts or misunderstandings during the run.
Be familiar with the route.
If your group leader distributes a route description before the run, make sure you’re familiar with it. It’s not fair to expect other runners to make sure you don’t get lost.
Be prepared with what you need.
Don’t expect to rely on other runners for supplies. Carry your own water and nutrition, as well as some cash or a credit card, just in case you need it.
Don’t be a road hog.
Make sure you’re running no more than two abreast, especially on busy roads, sidewalks, or trails, so that other runners and cyclists can easily pass. Not only is it rude to take over a path and block other runners, walkers, or cyclists, but it can be a potential safety hazard. Be aware of any special rules for running in parks or on trails, such as running in a clockwise direction on a loop course.
Be silent sometimes.
Runners join groups for the social element, but that doesn’t mean they want to hear the same person talk non-stop about their running accomplishments, injuries, or life problems during every run. Ask people, especially the newer members of the group, questions to give them a chance to speak.
Keep it clean.
Yes, adult topics do come up during group runs, but watch your language and conversation content. Even if you know some group members very well, there may be newer runners who don’t feel as comfortable with off-color topics. Don’t push the conversation to the point where people start to feel uncomfortable.
Don’t let one person be the workhorse.
Try to spread the load among the whole group. If you’re running into the wind, take turns running in the front so everyone gets the benefit of drafting. Also, if you mutually agreed to share supplies, such as a water bottle or food, with another runner take turns carrying it.
Also see: Running Etiquette Rules for Racing
