25 Basic Etiquette Rules for Striding - Part 1
25 Basic Etiquette Rules for Striding
Adapted from Christine Luff, ACE-CPT Updated on September 08, 2021
Reviewed by John Honerkamp
When striding on trails, paths, a track, or roads, it's important for striders to follow a basic set of rules. Doing so helps keep those areas safe and enjoyable for everyone, including non-striders.
Common-sense guidelines can improve your striding experience if you're stridingalong a multi-use path, your local track or trails, or on the road. There are also a few racing rules that are helpful to know if you participate in a striding event. Keep these practices in mind when you stride.
Basic Safety Rules for Striding:
No matter where you are striding, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and know safety guidelines.
• Always look both ways before entering or exiting a path when you are approaching intersections. Even if you're striding on a one-way street, there may be striders or cyclists coming from the other direction.
• Follow the posted rules if you're striding on a track. Typically, stridersproceed only in one direction and outer lanes are for slower striders and walkers. If there are no posted rules, ask other striders on the track or follow their lead.
• Reconsider headphones, especially on unfamiliar paths. You need to be able to hear traffic and signals from other people using the path or trail. If you really need music as a distraction, keep the volume low and one earbud out.
• Wait for drivers to see you before proceeding through driveways and other intersections without signage. Make eye contact with the driver if you can.
• Wear bright-colored or reflective clothing so that drivers can see you at night (and even during the day). Lighted shoe accessories also make you more noticeable to drivers and cyclists.
• Tell someone when and where you will be striding and when you'll be back.
Staying safe on the road means seeing others and making sure that others see you. Wear bright clothing and stay alert when you stride.
