Follow These 10 Commandments Of Running
All runners should abide by some principles. So without further ado, to help guide you, here are the 10 commandments of running.
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It is amusing and sometimes frustrating how people don’t take others into consideration when they run. People think it’s everyone else’s responsibility to pick up their mess or get out of their way. All runners should abide by some principles.
Here are my 10 commandments of running:
1. Pick up your trash, especially in a race. Really! Since when is it okay to throw your garbage on the ground? If you just raced several miles, you should be able to make it over to the 50 garbage cans within 5 feet of you.
2. It is common courtesy to at least give a head nod as you pass another runner. Bonus points if you say, “Good morning.” It’s not like being friendly expends enough energy to make or break your run.
3. Your music is for you. Use some headphones, please! The life you save may be your own. (Note: Keep your music low or one earbud out so you can safely navigate your run).
4. Don’t play chicken with someone on a bicycle. You won’t win! There is room for everyone.
5. If your shoe comes untied or you need to take a phone call, move off of the path or road. You are just asking for someone to run into you if you stop right in the middle.
6. Always go to the bathroom before you start your run. Nothing is worse than cramping or crapping halfway through. Don’t tell me that it has never happened to you. If you see someone running without a sock, don’t ask questions. You should be grateful that they wiped.
7. If you are going to run in a bike lane (on a road), face oncoming traffic. That way, you can jump for safety when the car full of kids taking selfies comes straight for you.
8. Don’t overdo it on the perfume. I hope that nobody will be giving you the sniff test. If they do, call the cops immediately!
9. If your race is going through a residential neighborhood and kids are lining up along the sidewalk, give them a high five. It will make their day and provide you with a mental boost.
10. I have no problem with snot rockets or spitting while you run, but look before you blow! Nobody likes to take a booger to the face. It’s just gross!
For more from Brian Goldman, visit Running Without Injuries.