Running manners (Read 800 times)

This is just the "polite Englishman" in me coming out but, when you are out for a run, do you acknowledge someone making way for you, or do you just run on by...? Today I got to noticing how often I do it - whether it was when a group walking three-abreast moved over to let pass (cheery wave and a shouted "Thank-you!" (just to show them I had enough puff )), or when a car pulled out to give me plenty of clearance (Just a cheery wave, obviously...). Also, what do you do when you see another runner, do you smile, say hello/hi/bonjour/guten tag/whatever.....or, as in the case of one guy I see pretty regularly, make a point of studying your watch and not "noticing" any other runner...? I suspect that the people who answer this will be the polite types (they will answer for just that reason ) Cheers, Phil

In general, when someone does something nice or thoughtful for you, running related or not, it's always good to acknowledge their actions. I generally am taken aback when stuff like that happens and want to make sure that the person knows that I'm sincerely thankful for what they've done. Not that I have many other runners by me, but when I do pass one, I will either wave or say hello. I don't always get a response, not that I expect one. People are out there for different reasons, some to just be by themselves so I try to respect that by not being too invasive. For almost 1 year, I would pass this woman runner in opposite directions, and not once did she acknowledge any of my waves or hellos. Then one day I happeded to be running in the same direction as her, and I briefly chatted with her and introduced myself. From that day on, she always returned or even initiated the greeting. So in her case, I was thinking that it was a matter of insecurity on her part, not wanting to acknowledge some strange guy. Phil, keep up the cheery disposition out there!

Because of the time of day I find myself running (late PM), I don't often see many folks out on the path. If I do, I either say "hello" or nod my head. Most of the time, I get a nod or nothing in return which is fine. I made it down to run with Trent this past Saturday morning in Tennessee, and a cheery "morning!" was issued to all passing/passed runners, walkers, and even a few bikers. I've found that most people out getting their exercise are quite polite.

I have to admit it--when I get near the end of a really long run, Bozo the Clown could go skating by me and I might not acknowledge him. I get to a point, sometimes, when I just don't have the energy or desire (or, let's face it--manners) to say hello. But usually, yes, I give a wave to other runners/walkers and occasionally to bikers.

I generally give a quick wave or nod, depending on how I'm feeling/what point I'm at in my run. Around my house there aren't many runners, so when I see someone I get all excited and give a big wave and generally say "Hi", unfortunately, they don't usually respond. Perhaps I look desperate?

I try to make eye contact, smile and wave. If they're close enough, I'll say hello. I have noticed that I ordinarily only get acknowledged by male runners. Seems many female runners in my area are only able to give the 'stink eye' when running.

Where I live every runner says hi to another runner...if the other runner doesn't, you just assume they're new at it, and will catch on at some point or not a part of the running community at all... or maybe they're just a jerk I say hi to walkers too if they make eye contact and wave to cars that make way but again, if it's near the end of a really long run and i'm struggling just to finish, then I'm the same as Tanya and wouldn't notice bozo walk by me, but those times are rare and i'm sure it's obvious to any passerby.

Showing gratitude is always good.