Path Etiquette

Make sure you follow path etiquette when you train on crowded paths such as The Chicago Lakefront and Waterfall Glen. 

• Stay on the right side of the path. 
• Only walk or run two abreast.
• If you are about to pass someone say “on your left”.  Be courteous and alert them to your presence without frightening them.  Saying “good morning” or “great job” is another way to let them know you’re there in a friendly way.
• If someone says “on your left” to you, move to the right.
• Communicate with your team members and others on the path.  If you see a bike ahead of you, for example, call “bike up” or if a bike or runner just past you call “bike back” or “runner back” to those ahead of you.
• When you see a fellow team member acknowledge them with a “Go Team” or other encouragement.
• Do not throw candy or gel wrappers on the ground.  Save them for the next trash can.  At water stops, stack used cups neatly or throw them in a trash bag.  

Below are some additional safety tips from Road Runner's Club of America. 

• Don’t wear headsets.  If you do use them, keep the music low enough that you can still be aware of your surroundings.
• Always stay alert and aware of what’s going on around you.  The more aware you are, the less vulnerable you are.
• Carry a cell phone or calling card for a phone call.  Know the locations of call boxes and telephones along your regular route.
• Trust your intuition about a person or an area. React on your intuition and avoid a person or situation if you’re unsure.  If something tells you a situation is not “right”, it isn’t.\Alter or vary your running/walking route pattern.  Run in familiar areas if possible.  In unfamiliar areas, such as while traveling, contact a local Team in Training chapter or running store.  Know where open businesses or stores are located.
• Run or walk with a partner.
•  Write down or leave word of the direction of your run or walk.  Tell friends and family of your favorite routes.
• Avoid unpopulated areas, deserted streets and overgrown trails.  Especially avoid unlit areas.  Stay clear of parked cars or bushes.
• Carry identification.  Your Team in Training shoe tag should be completely filled out and attached to your shoe at all times.
• Ignore verbal harassment.  Use discretion in acknowledging strangers.  Look directly at others and be observant, but keep your distance and keep moving.
• Run or walk against traffic so you can observe approaching automobiles.
• Wear reflective material if you must run or walk before dawn or after dark.
• Practice memorizing license plates and identifying characteristics of strangers.
• Carry a whistle and/or pepper spray.  Get training in self-defense and the use of pepper spray.
• Call police immediately if something happens to you or someone else or you notice anyone out of the ordinary.  It is important to report incidents immediately.