Etiquette for marathon runners: how to behave during race to have a good time

Marathon is perhaps the largest running event in terms of number of participants. Efforts of organizers are not enough to maintain the order and here the unwritten laws of mass running come to the rescue. In anticipation of the “Almaty Marathon”, which will be held on April 21, we decided to acquaint you with a few basic rules of runner etiquette.

Every year around the world, running marathons are gaining more and more popularity. The number of participants is growing, and races are getting bigger. For organizers, the main task of any marathon is to ensure the safety of participants and the creation of a real sports festival that will leave vivid and pleasant memories from the whole event. That is why there are several rules of behaviour during the race that will help you and others not only to take part as safely as possible, but also to get a lot of positive emotions from the process. Let's take a look at 9 simple rules that every runner should follow:

1. Place at the start

There is nothing more annoying than running around the crowd at the start. In large marathons, athletes are often divided into groups according to their intended pace. The most prepared participants start in the first rows and the last go those for whom the process is more important than the result. If taking the first place is of no importance, then do not try to make your way into the first rows of the race. You will create a crowd and win nothing: the chip-time report starts only when the start line is crossed.

2. Amateur leaders

In order not to interfere with faster runners, do not line up in a row of more than two people. It is quite possible to communicate with friends during the running, being slightly behind or in front. But it is desirable to run independently.

3. Tie your shoelaces on the curb.

If you need to stop, in order to catch your breath or, for example, tie shoelaces, you should warn those around you. It is recommended to raise up your hand and shout: "I stop!». However, if you do not have enough strength to say it loudly, then you can use gesture. And it is advisable to move away to the curb without disturbing other runners.

4. Drinks are enough for everyone

You should be especially careful at the food and water points. Before you rush to the tables with water, energetic drinks and bananas, make sure that you do not disturb people running behind. Drinks will be enough for everyone, so it is not necessary at all to rush to the first table, as there will be water and food points on the track and in the finish town. It will be more profitable to run up to those points that are a little further. By the way, during running, it is better not to drink water, drink a small amount of water before race and fill the lost balance of water after you complete your distance.

5. Blow your nose and spit correctly

Do not spit if you are running in the middle of the stream. Most likely, you spit on someone's clothes. This is very unpleasant.

Also, while running blowing your nose directly on the track is not hygienic and not correct. We understand that reaching the finish line remains the most important thing in overcoming marathons, but you are not running alone and adhere to the rules of etiquette and hygiene.

6. Say no to trash

Do not throw garbage on the track and in start and finish town. Dispose of cups, bottles and other garbage in special tanks, which are usually located in start town and throughout marathon.

7. A kind word for volunteers

Often, marathon participants neglect the work of volunteers. Nobody canceled common courtesy rules during races. Say the words of gratitude addressed to volunteers who work so that you run comfortably.

8. No music drama

Strictly speaking, the rules of marathons prohibit the use of portable players, gadgets and headphones. Because of the loud music, you can not only listen to some important announcements from the organizers, but also not hear the warning words of other participants.

9. Happy face at the finish

Do not stop immediately after you cross the finish line, unless you are the last to come running. Stretching finishers on the asphalt immediately after the line is crossed, first of all, risk their health. And do not forget to make a happy face for a successful final photo!

If you are a fan of marathons, then these rules will help bring up an exemplary runner in you! If not, then it's never too late to start running, following these simple tips. All over the world, marathon runners try to adhere to these rules, helping the organizers to make a sports festival for all participants throughout the distance. Come to the marathon and enjoy races!