Whether you are new to outdoor exercise or a seasoned trail user, there are some tips you can keep in mind to ensure that everyone can have a pleasurable time outdoors:
- Stay to the right, pass on the left - Think of it as if you are a car on the road, yield to the oncoming traffic and wait until the path is clear before you pass.
- Call out "passing" or "on your left" as you approach - This lets the person you are about to pass know that you are behind them so they aren't startled or move into your path. That being said, watch to make sure that they have heard you (maybe they're wearing headphones), so slow down to ensure that you pass them safely.
- Be aware of those passing you - If you hear someone call out or ring their bell, stay to the right and maybe even acknowledge you heard them with a wave.
- If you need to stop - Maybe you're winded or you just saw someone you know, be courteous and step off the path to make sure you avoid collisions. For people who exercise in groups, two abreast is ideal, any more than that crowds the trail and makes collisions more likely to happen.
- Watch for little kids and people walking their pets - Both can be unpredictable so be aware of your surroundings.
- Pay attention to what's around you - Not everyone is going to follow the same rules of etiquette as you do, so be observant and prepared to avoid potential collisions.
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