My 7 weeks (and counting) of half marathon training have caused me to spend a lot of time running outside. I’ve run around my neighborhood to the surrounding towns, through woodsy running trails; you name it, I’ve run it. In almost every atmosphere I have encountered other runners who I pass along my way. It has become habit for me- after taking up running as a hobby & competitive sport about 15 years ago- to acknowledge those fellow runners when they pass by. Whether its a smile, nod, quick wave, or even “good morning”; I always pay a bit of attention.
I call this running etiquette- a little camaraderie of sorts between people who share the love (or love/hate) of running. A little pick-me-up and support at mile 10 to show that you’re not alone in your efforts. I recall countless days of cross country and track practice which took me through the winding streets of my hometown. I’d pass folks left and right and almost every time we exchanged a friendly smile or nod. Even when away on vacation, I steal some time to explore the new area by way of a long run and the same thing happens. Two runners pass, and a greeting is exchanged. But it seems to have disappeared lately!
On almost every run I have done for my half marathon training, I get snubbed by others when we pass each other on the road. I’ll smile, nod, or wave and I don’t even get any eye contact in return! At first I thought it was a fluke- that I must’ve passed someone who got up on the wrong side of the bed- and that the next person surely would smile. But that wasn’t the case; person after person and still nothing! I can count on one hand the times where Idid get acknowledgement in return. It disappoints me that people have forgotten about running etiquette. Its so much more pleasant when two otherwise strangers are able to connect for a split second and offer some mutual encouragement. Isn’t that human nature?
I’m curious to know what you think: do you believe in running etiquette? Do you give a little wave or smile when you pass a fellow runner?
I call this running etiquette- a little camaraderie of sorts between people who share the love (or love/hate) of running. A little pick-me-up and support at mile 10 to show that you’re not alone in your efforts. I recall countless days of cross country and track practice which took me through the winding streets of my hometown. I’d pass folks left and right and almost every time we exchanged a friendly smile or nod. Even when away on vacation, I steal some time to explore the new area by way of a long run and the same thing happens. Two runners pass, and a greeting is exchanged. But it seems to have disappeared lately!
On almost every run I have done for my half marathon training, I get snubbed by others when we pass each other on the road. I’ll smile, nod, or wave and I don’t even get any eye contact in return! At first I thought it was a fluke- that I must’ve passed someone who got up on the wrong side of the bed- and that the next person surely would smile. But that wasn’t the case; person after person and still nothing! I can count on one hand the times where Idid get acknowledgement in return. It disappoints me that people have forgotten about running etiquette. Its so much more pleasant when two otherwise strangers are able to connect for a split second and offer some mutual encouragement. Isn’t that human nature?
I’m curious to know what you think: do you believe in running etiquette? Do you give a little wave or smile when you pass a fellow runner?
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