So you want to be the next Kilian Jornet? You want to give trail running a go. I mean who wouldn’t. With the beautiful scenery trail running has to offer – you really do see parts of the world you would never get to see but for trail running. Run atop the Swiss Alps, visit the untrodden gems of New Zealand, run along the amazing dolomites in Italy – need we say more?
Trails are in some ways different. There are some unwritten but generally accepted rules of trail running. Here’s some trail etiquette to bear in mind on your next trail run.
Unwritten Rules Of The Trails
#1 Leave the iPod behind. On rapid descents, you would not be able to hear an oncoming runner. Don’t make an oncoming runner say excuse me a million times, or even worse, run into you.
#2 If someone yells out to you on your left, this means he will be passing by your left side. Stay on your right side to avoid collision.
#3 Trail runners going downhill should be given right of way. Pfft I know, you’re thinking the uphill hikers are working harder so they should be given right of way. But, downhill runners are going at a much faster speed than uphill runners. It is easier for an uphill runner to get out of the way as compared to a downhill runner.
#4 Don’t be that guy who leaves his trash behind. If you can carry it in, you can carry it back out. Don’t destroy Mother Nature.
#5 Greet people you meet on the trail. This is so that people know you are oncoming. And of course it’s basic manners.
There’s so much fun to discover in the trails. What are you guys waiting for? You’re in for the time of your life.
