Health

Running Etiquette Tips for Races

How to Be a Polite Race Participant

Updated April 16, 2013

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If you're new to running in road races, you may not be familiar with some of the rules – both stated and unwritten. While many veteran runners love to see new runners joining the sport, they have pet peeves about inconsiderate behavior from other runners. To avoid annoying fellow runners (and prevent looking like a newbie), be sure to follow these etiquette guidelines when participating in races:

Pay for Your Spot

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Running in a race you haven't entered, also called "banditing", is not fair to race organizers, volunteers, and especially the people who have paid to participate. It's also unsafe, since race organizers plan their course amenities, such as water and sports drinks, and medical assistance based on the number of people who have signed up for the race. And overcrowded race conditions can lead to falls and other problems.
More: Can I Run in a Race I Didn't Register For?

Line Up Properly

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Nothing is more annoying to a runner at the start of a race than having to weave around slower runners after the gun goes off. Faster runners should line up at the front of the starting line, slower runners and walkers at the back. Some races have corrals based on estimated pace or post pace signs. If not, ask runners nearby their anticipated pace, and if it's faster than yours, move further back. Most races use timing chips, so the time it takes you to reach the starting line won't count in your final net time.

More: How to Deal With Crowds at Races

Don't Jingle

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Don't carry loose change or a set of keys in your pocket. Although it may not bother you, the constant jingling can be really annoying to those who are running near you.

Don't Take Up the Whole Road

Photo by John Foxx

If you're running with a group, try not to run more than two abreast, so others can pass you.

Show Appreciation to Volunteers

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Say "Thank You!" to race volunteers who hand you water or put your medal around your neck. They're volunteering their time and the race would not be successful without them.

Use Caution When Wearing Headphones

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Yes, most races allow runners to listen to music (as long as they're not competing for a prize), and a lot of runners can't run without their music. But, for your and other runners' safety, you should make sure you can still hear what happening around you. Keep the volume low or run with one earbud out so you can hear instructions from race officials and warnings (i.e., "on your left") from other runners during the race.

Thank Supporters, Too

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Acknowledge race spectators who cheer for you as you pass them. If you're too tired to say "thanks," show them a smile, wave, or give them a thumbs up. It will make them feel good and encourage them to keep rooting for others.

Be Careful at Water Stations

Runners at New York City Marathon water stop

Chris McGrath/Getty Images

Water stations can get a bit chaotic and crowded. Use caution when running into a water stop and make sure you're not cutting off other runners or spilling water on them. If you're going to stop or slow down to walk through the water stop, make sure there's not a runner behind you.

More: How to Run Through Water Stops

Keep Moving at the Finish

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Don't immediately stop at the finish line or in the chute. There will be runners coming in right behind you, so keep going until it's safe to come to a stop.

Also see: Finish Line Tips

Don't Be a Glutton

Don't take more than your fair share of food and drinks at the finish line. The back of the pack runners will appreciate it when there are still enough goodies for them at the end.

Also see:
Runners' Top Pet Peeves