Awhile back, I confessed that I haven't raced since high school. I have another terrible confession. I am a recluse. I prefer complete and silent solitude. I run alone. I cook alone. I read alone. I lift weights alone. I write alone. (There are a few things I don't do alone and for those things I have had the great fortune of marrying my {roll your eyes now} soulmate.)
For my son's sake, I do make the occasional effort to go where other people will be. This morning it was to the park. There were LOTS of people running and exercising. I nodded my head pleasantly to them as my boy pointed out the numerous ducks. We were venturing down a slope when I became aware of movement behind me. A man was riding his bike and actually had to veer off the walkway into the grass. He informed me, in passing, that I was on the wrong side of the path. That I should stay on the right.
I was taken aback. And my bright and shiny morning was on the verge of being destroyed.
Please help me. Is there a right or wrong side to walk on in a city park? The path is not marked and it is not posted anywhere. I am not afraid to tell people smoking is not allowed in a public park but, then again, I am able to point to the city ordinance which states the law.
Also, I came across a group of mommies with their joggers. A very energetic and extremely fit (her shoulders absolutely dwarfed mine!) young mother informed me that she leads a Baby Boot Camp. She invited me to join the group for a free first class on Thursday and you know what? I'm going to do it! This recluse is stepping out!
seeMOMMYrun.com is a free service that help moms find other walking or running moms in their areas. The site helps the 'everyday athlete' in all of us stay motivated, set goals, and reach them.
2 comments:
I just use road rules: I tend to stay right, pass left; but I have been known to wander into the middle of a path without knowing it (especially on long runs).
But I also think anyone passing (on bike or quickly on foot), should call out in warning that they are going to be "Passing left" to give you a chance to move out of the way - and to not scare the crap out of you or ruin your morning when they go by.
I agree with Crumbs. It is often posted, but "Trail Etiquette" consistently encourages passing on the left, slower traffic staying to the right and most importantly, hailing "On your left" or a similar statement before passing (with caution, of course). I often hail "on your left" as I pass others while I run with my stroller since we are a wide load!
When running or biking in a group, one should go single file whenever other runners or bikers are around as well.
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