Proper Etiquette for Participating in a Running Event

Running events are an excellent way to enjoy physical activity in a friendly and festive environment. However, sometimes even unconsciously, some runners may behave inappropriately, which can ruin the experience for both themselves and other participants. In this article, we present some recommendations for behaving properly in a popular race, dividing it into three sections: before, during, and after the race. Many of these tips are common sense, but it's important to remember that respect and collaboration are key to creating a pleasant and safe environment for all runners.

The goal is not to be the police, but to remember that a popular race should be a party for all participants.

1. Before the race

Don't sign up if you're not sure you'll participate

Before registering for a popular race, it's essential to be sure of your participation. It's especially important in events with free registration since each registration generates expenses for the organizer. The preparation of bibs, shirts, and refreshments for each runner represents a cost that is wasted if the runner doesn't attend the event.

In addition, by occupying an unnecessary spot, other interested runners may be left without the possibility of participating. Therefore, it's essential to be aware and responsible when making the decision to register for a race.

Don't participate without being correctly registered

Participating in a popular race without being correctly registered can generate various problems for both the organizers and the other runners. Here are some reasons why it's crucial to register correctly before participating:

Identification: If you run without being registered, you won't be identified in case of an accident or medical emergency. This can make assistance difficult and put your life and that of other runners at risk.

Capacity: Running without registration contributes to exceeding the established capacity for the event, which can generate crowds and increase the risk of accidents.

Refreshments: By not being registered, taking refreshments at the established stations means taking resources away from other runners who have paid for them. This can generate discontent and foster disorganization in the race.

For all these reasons, it's essential to register correctly before participating in a popular race.

Position yourself correctly at the start

Positioning yourself correctly at the start is essential for a successful and safe race. In sports events, especially in races with a large number of participants, starts are usually divided into blocks according to expected arrival times. These blocks allow runners with similar times to compete together and avoid congestion on the race route.

It's important that athletes follow the race organization's instructions and place themselves in the block corresponding to their expected arrival time, rather than based on personal interests or desires to compete alongside friends or family. If a runner places themselves in a block that's too advanced, they can cause unnecessary congestion and put other runners at risk.

On the other hand, if a runner places themselves in a block that's too far behind, they can get stuck in the middle of a crowd and have difficulty advancing. Additionally, if the runner doesn't meet the maximum time established by the race organization, they may be disqualified.

In summary, before a popular race, it's essential to ensure that you register correctly, be aware of the responsibility that registration entails, and position yourself appropriately at the start. By following these guidelines, you will contribute to the event being organized and safe, improving the experience for all runners.

2. During the race

Pay attention to other runners

Being attentive to other runners is crucial, especially during the start, where each step must be taken with care. Pay attention to the runners in front of you and avoid stepping on their heels or colliding with them. Maintain a safe distance to avoid accidents or tripping.

Don't push and/or squeeze into tight spaces

In events like marathons, where thousands of people participate, the space to run can be limited, especially at the beginning of the race. It is essential to avoid pushing, hitting, or forcing your way through tight spaces, as this can create dangerous situations and discomfort among runners. Remember that all participants face the same space conditions.

Avoid zigzags and run on the right side

Running straight and staying on the right side of the route makes it easier for other runners to predict your movements. Avoid sudden moves to the sides or zigzagging, as this can cause confusion and increase the risk of accidents. By maintaining a clear and constant trajectory, you allow the runners behind you to pass safely.

Don't cut the course

Although it may seem obvious, it is surprising how many people decide to cut the official course to save distance. It is important to remember that by doing this, you are only cheating yourself and distorting the spirit of the competition. Always stick to the official course to respect the rules and the effort of all participants.

Don't brake suddenly

Braking suddenly and without warning during the race can be dangerous for runners coming from behind. If you need to stop, gradually reduce your speed, approach the right edge of the route, and stop safely.

Pay attention to the organization

Pay attention to the organization's instructions at all times. It is advisable to run without headphones to hear important announcements and communications. Some races even prohibit the use of headphones for safety reasons. By being alert, you can ensure a safer and more organized race for everyone.

Alert others of obstacles/dangers

If you encounter obstacles or dangers on the route, it is important to alert the runners coming from behind. For example, if you see a pothole or an object in the way, warn others by raising your hand or shouting a warning to avoid accidents.

Be careful when spitting

Be cautious when spitting during the race, as it can affect other runners trying to pass. If you need to spit, make sure to do it to the side and away from other participants.

Don't litter, especially not the remains from the refreshment stations

Keep the route clean and safe by avoiding littering, especially near refreshment stations. For example, by discarding banana peels or water bottles on the path, other runners may slip or trip over these objects, causing accidents. Use the trash bins provided by the organization to dispose of waste properly.

Help those who need it

In a popular race, it is essential to show solidarity and support for other runners. If you see someone who needs help, whether it be from a cramp, a fall, or some other issue, do not hesitate to offer your assistance. By collaborating and taking care of others, we contribute to creating an atmosphere of companionship and respect in the competition.

In summary, during a popular race, it is crucial to adopt a responsible and respectful behavior towards other participants. By being attentive, avoiding pushing, maintaining a predictable trajectory, not cutting the course, braking with caution, paying attention to the organization, alerting others of obstacles and dangers, being careful when spitting, not littering on the ground, and helping those in need, you will be contributing to a safe, organized, and enriching event for all runners.

III. After the race

Don't stop right after crossing the finish line

It is crucial not to stop immediately after crossing the finish line, especially in large marathons where there may be moments when hundreds of runners arrive in the same minute. Keep in mind that other runners may be arriving at great speed and with limited strength, so they may not see you and collide with you, causing falls and injuries.

For example, imagine crossing the finish line of an important marathon and suddenly stopping to celebrate your achievement or take a photo. Other runners coming behind you may not have enough time to react and brake, which could create a risk situation for everyone involved. In addition, this type of behavior can generate discomfort among runners, as everyone is tired and eager to finish the race without inconvenience.

Therefore, it is important to continue walking forward after crossing the finish line, heading towards the refreshment stations and finding a place where you can recover, chat with your fellow runners, and start stretching. This way, you allow all runners to finish the race safely and in an orderly manner, avoiding unnecessary accidents and misunderstandings.

Congratulate and share experiences with other runners

It is common that, from a certain point in the race, you find yourself running alongside the same runners, as each one has found their "place" and pace. And although after crossing the finish line everyone may be exhausted and with limited strength at that moment, it is important to recognize and celebrate the effort of your fellow runners. A simple gesture like high-fiving or patting on the back can be a sign of recognition and mutual support among runners.

These small gestures can generate an atmosphere of camaraderie and fellowship in the competition, which reinforces the idea that all participants are part of the same community united by their passion for the sport. In addition, these types of interactions can foster opportunities to engage in conversations and share experiences lived during the race, such as difficult moments, personal achievements, or funny anecdotes. By congratulating your fellow runners, you may discover that you have shared similar situations or faced similar challenges, which can strengthen the connection between participants and foster new friendships.

Thank the volunteers

Although athletes are the protagonists of the races, we cannot forget that volunteers are essential for these events to take place. It costs nothing to show empathy and gratitude towards this group of people who put everything on their part so that you can enjoy your passion.

Keep in mind that, on many occasions, volunteers collaborate entirely selflessly, getting up very early on weekends and not receiving anything in return. They may also be sports teams, often from athletics, who by providing assistance can obtain economic resources to acquire sports equipment and support their activities.

It is important to highlight that, on many occasions, volunteers who participate in running events are children and adolescents. For this reason, a simple gesture of gratitude or a word of recognition can mean a lot to them. In addition to the personal satisfaction that the activity they perform provides, they experience first-hand what it feels like to be valued and respected, which can have a positive impact on their personal development.

By following these recommendations, you can enjoy the race and ensure respect for the other participants, organizers, and volunteers. Empathy and consideration are fundamental aspects in popular races, and by adopting a responsible and conscious attitude, you will be contributing to the success of the event and the enjoyment of all those involved.

In short, by participating in a popular race, you are not only testing your physical performance, but also your ability to be part of a community united by the love of sports. Therefore, it is essential to adopt appropriate and respectful behavior before, during, and after the race, so that all runners can enjoy an enriching and rewarding experience.