Running’s awesome—it brings people together, clears your head, and keeps you fit. But let’s be real: sometimes runners do stuff that annoys other runners and non-runners alike.
Whether it’s overposting on social media, blocking paths, or judging pace, these habits can give our community a bad rep without us even meaning to.
I’ve seen it, I’ve done it, and I’m all for cleaning up our act. So here’s a no-nonsense list of 38 common runner habits that can rub people the wrong way—and simple ways to avoid them.
If you want to be a better runner and help build a stronger, friendlier running community, stick with me.
Got a pet peeve of your own? Drop it in the comments—I want to hear what drives you nuts out there.
1. Why Over-Posting About Running Can Harm Your Image
We’ve all shared a sweaty selfie after a run or posted about a new personal best on Instagram. But there’s a fine line between celebrating progress and flooding your feed with constant updates.
It’s great to share your passion, but if every post is about running, it can start to feel like bragging, even if that’s not your intention.
How to Avoid It:
Don’t post too often. Mix things up by sharing both victories and struggles to show the full journey.
2. Respecting Shared Spaces: Why Runners Must Be Considerate
I get it. You’re in the zone, and you don’t want to think about anyone else. But when you’re running in shared spaces, like parks or busy streets, being considerate is key.
How to Avoid It:
Don’t block paths or run too close to others. Be aware of your surroundings and adjust your path when needed. Check this guide to running etiquette.
3. How Excessive Bragging Can Turn Off Fellow Runners
It’s natural to feel proud of your accomplishments. But there’s a limit to how much “humble bragging” is okay. Constantly flaunting your personal records or race finishes can make others feel excluded.
How to Avoid It:
Celebrate your wins, but also acknowledge others’ progress, no matter how small. Running is personal for everyone.
4. Why It’s Time to Stop Judging Others for Their Pace
One of the most frustrating things I see is runners shaming others for their pace, especially beginners. We’ve all felt insecure about our pace, but the truth is, running is about progress, not perfection.
How to Avoid It:
Support all runners, no matter their speed. Celebrate their progress and remember that everyone’s journey is different.
5. Running With Headphones Is Dangerous
Headphones can help you get in the zone, but they can also be a safety risk. Running in high-traffic areas with loud music can prevent you from hearing cars, cyclists, or other runners.
How to Avoid It:
Use headphones wisely. Take them out in busy areas, or use bone-conduction headphones to stay aware of your surroundings.
6. Running in Unsafe or Inappropriate Areas
We’ve all thought, “I’ll just run in the street, it’s quicker.” But running in unsafe areas is never a good idea.
How to Avoid It:
Always pick safe routes. Wear reflective gear, run against traffic, and stay aware of your surroundings.
7. The Danger of Ignoring Trail or Nature Etiquette
When running on trails, it’s important to respect nature. Yield to hikers, step off the trail when passing others, and don’t disturb wildlife. Trail running isn’t just about speed—it’s about enjoying the outdoors responsibly.
How to Avoid It:
Follow trail rules and be respectful of everyone on the trail, including cyclists and hikers.
8. Why Littering During Runs Makes the Running Community Look Careless
Littering during a race or training session is one of the worst things a runner can do. Whether it’s tossing a gel packet or dropping a water bottle, it leaves a negative impact on the environment and the running community.
How to Avoid It:
Dispose of trash properly. Hold onto it until you find a trash can or take a few extra seconds to find one.
9. Don’t Be the Runner Who Treats Running as the Only Way to Get Fit
Running is amazing, but it’s not the only way to get fit. Promoting running as the one and only fitness option can alienate people who enjoy other forms of exercise, like yoga, cycling, or strength training. Running should be part of a balanced fitness routine.
How to Avoid It:
Celebrate all forms of fitness. Encourage others to explore what works best for them.
10. The Importance of Listening to Your Body
Overtraining is a real problem. Many runners push themselves too hard, ignoring the signs of fatigue or injury. Listening to your body is key to long-term success in running.
How to Avoid It:
Pay attention to your body’s signals. Take rest days, get enough sleep, and don’t push through pain.
11. Overusing Running Stickers on Cars
We’ve all seen those race stickers on cars, like 13.1 or Ragnar. But, honestly, they can seem a bit much to people who aren’t runners. Sure, they’re a big deal for us runners, but to others, it might look like we’re showing off.
How to Avoid It:
Celebrate your achievements in private or share with friends who understand your passion without making it a public display.
12. Talking About Running All the Time
It’s easy to get caught up in a runner’s enthusiasm, but constantly steering conversations back to running can frustrate non-runners. We’ve all been there—guilty of turning every conversation into a running chat, right? But not everyone wants to hear about our last race or new PR.
How to Avoid It:
Be mindful of the context and mood before launching into running talk. Give others a chance to share their interests too.
13. The “Hobby Jogger” Mentality
Some runners unintentionally alienate those who run at a slower pace by calling them “hobby joggers” or downplaying their efforts. These terms can make it seem like only fast runners are worthy of respect.
How to Avoid It:
Appreciate all runners, regardless of pace or experience. Every runner has their own journey.
14. Excessive Social Media Posts About Running
We all love sharing our runs, but constantly posting about every run, whether it’s a personal best or an easy jog, can overwhelm your social media followers. Non-runners might not appreciate the daily updates, especially if it feels like you’re bragging about every little accomplishment.
How to Avoid It:
Try to share a balance of your successes and struggles. Show the real side of running, including the tough days, so it feels more relatable.
15. Taking Over Shared Spaces
Runners who block paths or take up entire sidewalks with their groups can make other people, including non-runners, feel uncomfortable. It’s all about sharing spaces with respect.
How to Avoid It:
Be aware of your surroundings, and when running in groups, stay single-file if needed to make room for others.
16. Judging Others for Their Fitness Choices
Some runners, in their passion for the sport, make the mistake of thinking other forms of exercise are inferior. Triathletes, cyclists, and even walkers can feel judged by runners who think running is the best exercise.
How to Avoid It:
Celebrate all forms of fitness. Share the benefits of running, but never diminish the value of other activities.
17. Running Without Listening to Your Body
Ignoring fatigue, injuries, or warning signs from your body in the pursuit of a faster pace or higher mileage can lead to burnout or injury. Not listening to your body sends a dangerous message that pushing through pain is always necessary.
How to Avoid It:
Pay attention to your body. Recovery is just as important as training, and knowing when to take a break is key for long-term success.
18. Making Every Run a Race
Some runners turn every run, even a casual jog, into a race. Whether it’s trying to pass someone or pushing themselves too hard, it can make others uncomfortable or put unnecessary pressure on themselves.
How to Avoid It:
Remember that running is about personal enjoyment. It’s okay to take it slow and enjoy the experience without trying to outdo others.
19. Running in Fancy Gear Without Using It Properly
Runners often buy expensive gear, but sometimes they don’t actually use it the way it’s meant to be used (like wearing shoes that don’t match their gait or using compression gear when it’s not needed). This can come off as trying to show off, instead of actually focusing on practical use.
How to Avoid It:
Invest in gear that actually supports your training needs, not just what looks cool or is trendy.
20. Spitting in Public
Spitting is something that many runners do, but it’s important to be considerate of others around you. Spitting in the middle of a busy path or near pedestrians can be really unpleasant.
How to Avoid It:
Move to the side or wait for a more appropriate time to clear your throat without grossing anyone out.
21. Talking About Your Running “High”
While “runner’s high” is a real thing, describing it in a way that makes others feel like they’re missing out can be frustrating, especially for non-runners.
How to Avoid It:
Share your positive experiences without making others feel left out, so everyone can feel part of the fun.
22. Not Acknowledging Fellow Runners
A friendly nod or wave when you pass another runner is a simple way to build camaraderie. Ignoring other runners can make them feel isolated or unappreciated, especially in community spaces.
How to Avoid It:
Acknowledge your fellow runners with a wave or a smile. It creates a sense of community.
23. Judging Non-Runners for Their Lifestyle Choices
Some runners are quick to judge those who don’t exercise or don’t share their passion for fitness. This can create division and discourage others from joining the running community.
How to Avoid It:
Be compassionate and non-judgmental. Everyone’s fitness journey is personal, and it’s important to support others without making them feel inferior.
24. Bragging About Running in Bad Weather
Running in tough conditions (like rain, snow, or extreme heat) can be impressive, but constantly bringing it up as if it’s a badge of honor can make others feel bad if they don’t run in the same weather.
How to Avoid It:
Appreciate running in tough conditions, but keep the focus on the experience itself, not on trying to make others feel inferior for not doing it.
25. Wearing Running Gear Outside of Training
Some runners wear their workout clothes—compression socks, running shorts, or race shirts—out to social events. This can come off as trying to show off their dedication, even when it’s not the right time.
How to Avoid It:
Keep your running gear for runs or workouts, and choose casual clothes when you’re out with friends or in public.
26. Ignoring the Need to Be Polite to Non-Runners
Some runners forget that not everyone wants to talk about running or even be approached during their own outdoor activities.
How to Avoid It:
Respect people’s personal space and know when to engage in running conversations and when to keep it to yourself.
27. Running in Front of Other Runners to Block Their Way
Sometimes runners get so focused on their own pace that they end up blocking faster runners without even realizing it.
How to Avoid It:
Be mindful of other runners around you, especially in crowded spaces, and adjust your pace to avoid getting in their way.
28. Ignoring Path Etiquette and Running on the Wrong Side
Some runners forget basic path etiquette, like not weaving in and out of other runners or running on the wrong side of the path.
How to Avoid It:
Stick to basic rules—run on the right or left, depending on where you are, and pass others with care.
29. Complaining About Injuries While Running
Some runners turn every race or training session into a story about their injuries or discomfort, which can feel like oversharing or seeking sympathy.
How to Avoid It:
It’s okay to talk about struggles, but mix in positive stories and helpful advice to keep things uplifting.
30. Running with a Group and Blocking the Path
Group runs often spread out on narrow paths or sidewalks, forcing others to work their way around the crowd.
How to Avoid It:
When running with a group, stay in a single line or adjust to make room for others.
31. Using Running Terminology That Non-Runners Don’t Understand
Runners can sometimes throw around running jargon (like VO2 max, fartlek, or negative splits) without realizing that non-runners might have no idea what they mean.
How to Avoid It:
Either explain the terms or keep it simple when talking to non-runners to avoid sounding like you’re showing off.
32. Bringing Pets on Runs Without Proper Control
Running with dogs can be fun, but some runners don’t keep their pets under control, creating safety hazards or disruptions.
How to Avoid It:
Always leash your dog when running, especially in crowded areas or when passing others.
33. Running Too Close to Other People
Running too close to others can make people feel uncomfortable, whether they’re walking or jogging.
How to Avoid It:
Give others space when running, especially in crowded areas like parks. A little distance goes a long way.
34. Overemphasizing Race Time Over the Running Experience
Some runners get so caught up in race times that they forget to enjoy the experience, turning every conversation into a talk about speed or times—even for casual runs.
How to Avoid It:
Remember, running is about the journey, not just the time. Share the whole experience, not just the finish.
35. Speeding Up When Being Passed
When a slower runner speeds up just to avoid being passed, it can make things uncomfortable for the person overtaking them, creating unnecessary competition.
How to Avoid It:
Let others pass when it’s their turn. Running isn’t always a race unless it’s meant to be.
36. Taking Selfies Mid-Run
Some runners stop to take selfies during a run, interrupting their flow and distracting those around them.
How to Avoid It:
Focus on the run, or take a photo during a natural break, like after crossing the finish line or at a rest stop.
37. Not Offering Help to Fellow Runners Who Are Struggling
Sometimes, more experienced runners overlook others who are struggling during a race or group run. A little encouragement can go a long way.
How to Avoid It:
If you see someone struggling, offer a kind word or a helping hand—whether they’re a beginner or experienced.
38. Judging Other People’s Running Gear
Some runners can be too critical of others’ gear, implying they’re not running correctly if they don’t have top-tier equipment.
How to Avoid It:
Be supportive of others, no matter what gear they use. Running is about effort and commitment, not the cost or brand of your equipment.
Conclusion: Running with Respect and Humility
The running community is full of passionate people, but we all make mistakes.
Whether it’s overposting, being too competitive, or judging others, remember: running is about personal growth, not competition.
By avoiding behaviors that give runners a bad name—like overposting, littering, or being judgmental—we can build a more supportive and inclusive community.
It’s all about respecting others, being humble, and recognizing that everyone’s journey is different.
As runners, we have the power to shape how the world sees our sport. By treating others with kindness and respect, we can make running accessible to everyone—from beginners to seasoned marathoners.
Let’s keep the focus on growth, not perfection.