Home > The Scene

Six unwritten rules of the running path

Follow these simple guidelines, and you'll be sure to make many a friend while getting your morning run in

Group of people trail running on a mountain path

Temperatures are slowly going down, and we’re moving into some of the best running of the year. With that in mind, we’ve decided to write the unwritten rules of the running path. Follow these simple guidelines, and you’ll be sure to make many a friend while getting your morning run in. 

RELATED: Nine verbally abusive comments drivers make to runners

Here, in no particular order, are the unwritten rules of the running path.

via GIPHY

If you’re going to pass, pass. No one likes a running path stalker. When you’re coming up on a fellow runner, make sure you go by them quickly. A little surge won’t kill you. There’s nothing worse than the awkward gap that slowly opens up when someone takes their time passing. 

via GIPHY

Look before you stop. If you’re running on a busy path, make sure you look before you take a break, and move onto the side of the trail. No one likes a middle-of-the-road shoe tier. They also don’t like a stationary song changer. Or even worse, an arms-to-the-sky GPS locator.

via GIPHY

Return the nod. When running on a path, especially if it’s fairly empty, be sure to return the ‘running nod.’ The running nod is a kind, short, and wordless exchange between two runners that says, “Hi, we’re both running right now.” It may seem silly and simple, but it’s a kind gesture. 

via GIPHY

Don’t run three or four abreast. Remember to share the path, and be courteous to your fellow runners. If you’re running with a group, pair off, it’ll make the conversation better. After all, you can’t really hear what the fourth person to your left is saying anyway. 

via GIPHY

Make sure you can hear. Lots of runners love listening to music while they get their miles in, but make sure that you’re still able to hear what’s happening around you. Oftentimes, other runners will let you know when they’re passing or alert you if something is happening up the trail. Try one headphone in or a slightly lower volume. 

via GIPHY

Don’t race. Unless directly challenged, don’t be an unwanted race challenger. If someone passes you, don’t speed up to save your pride. Remember, this is your workout. Just do your thing. 

Check out the latest buyer's guide:

Top 10 shoes our testers are loving this March

We tested tons of great shoes this year, but only the very best make the list