Don't Hock A Loogie!

THEINS ANDOUTS OF RUNNING ETIQUETTE– ANDHOW TO BE AMODEL RUNNING COMPANION.

- Sue

RUNNERS CAN BE NASTY INDIVIDUALS.

It’s the nature of the beast. Hands up if you’ve ever had the need to hock a loogie after a rough bout of flu or hay fever. Yes? It’s rather disgusting, so is it okay to toss it at the feet of your fellow runners? (Or in their ear... personal experience with this one. Granted, it was a windy day!) Running is so simple – you haul on your kit, lace up your shoes, brush your teeth (yes you do!) and head out the door. However; there are some unwritten rules that we don’t always discuss, but that are essential if you don’t want to annoy your fellow runners. According to dictionary.com, ‘etiquette’ is defined as ‘conventional requirements as to social behavior; properties of conduct as established in any class or community or for any occasion’. Here are a few tips to help you fit in on any run.

PUNCTUALITY

It all starts with getting to your group run on time: 6 am means 6 am, not five minutes past or eight minutes past. That’s rude and doesn’t go down well.

Yes, we all know that stuff happens and that sometimes we’re delayed en route to a run. But send a text message to let the group know (as early as possible), and don’t make a habit of it.

Do it on a regular basis, and you’ll be running on your own. The two-minute rule applies to most groups, but always try to get there a few minutes before the start time.

According to Prodigal Khumalo, one of SA’s top trail and road runners, it’s not cool to be late.

“Punctuality starts in training; and once you fail in training, the same start to apply at races. It’s so important to be on time for your training, as it’s a mindset you carry through to racing.”