DON'T BE ANNOYING
The summer into the fall months (May-Oct) are big months for people to be running/working out outside (for Chicago it's along the lake shore path). Believe it or not there is proper running etiquette that applies when you're running on a shared path. For those of you that were unaware of this, let me enlighten you to a few of them.
1.Do your own thing: Your workout run is not a competition. Run your own pace, and don't feel the need to compete with the person running next to you, or slightly behind you.
2.Keep it down: Not everyone wants to hear your ipod music blaring through your headphones, and not everyone wants to hear the entire conversation you're having with your running/workout partner. There's no need to be the one with the loudest music or the loudest voice. Be aware of others around you.
3.Aim your fluids carefully: With running comes draining bodily fluids (nose, mouth etc..) so be careful where you decide to spit, "farmer blow" or spit out your water when you wet your mouth. Nobody else wants your backlash on their feet, legs or anywhere else for that matter. Remember...you're not the only one on the path.
4.Leash your "best friend": It's great taking your dog for a run with you, both for your companionship as well as their health. However, keep in mind, not everyone loves your dog the way you do, and not everyone appreciates your dog running on a loose leash. Keep your "best friend" on a short leash, and make sure he/she doesn't interfere with someone else's run/workout.
5.Watch your step: You will encounter all levels of runners/walkers/bikers out on the path. Therefore, don't think just because you are running faster than someone else they must "yield" to you. Be courteous, and don't run on someone else's heals or cut someone off to get around them. Let people know you are behind them and about to pass with a simple phrase of "on your left". This is a common phrase known by all & alerts others that you are upon them, and about to pass. You don't own the path, so don't treat it as though you do. Lastly, be aware of others around you on the path. You must always be looking in all directions, not just in front of you. This will only help you to avoid accidents in the future.
Suzanne,
The visual that you've etched in my head concerning Tip #3 is quite a work of art. I will cherish it and keep it with me as I make my journey on the running path of life.
-Christie
Posted by: Christie Herr | August 16, 2008 at 05:15 PM