I’m sure I’m probably not alone in asking this. I run on rural paths (our Greenway which circles the town) and it’s used by many people. It varies in width from 3 to 6 feet depending on vegetation and today I was passed from behind by 2 cyclists with no warning. Yes I had earphones in but spoken podcast - not loud - so would have heard if they’d actually used their bell! One passed in a narrow section. Just frustrated!
On the bright side I completed W6R2 so the last interval run. I’m approaching this re-do at a leisurely pace (both runs and frequency). First time I was eager to finish so stuck as best I could to one day rest but this time I’m in no hurry. Just enjoying the process.
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Sybilw
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I am with you there Sybilw. I would rather somebody rings their bell to let me know they are behind me so that I don’t veer into their path, but i think some people might interpret it as the cyclist wanting you to get out their way. When cycling on shared paths I ring some distance away and thank them as I pass by, and say that I’m just letting them know I’m there.
Bikes are bad enough but we are also contending with e-scooters- a whole new problem in the city.
Yes I realise they have a dilemma (and I always jump if they DO ring 🤣) but, like you, I’m not convinced I always run completely straight, so feel I could veer into their path. Maybe we need a ‘polite’ bell and a ‘get out of my way’ one. 🤣
I hear you Sybilw! The problem is, when should they ring - I’ve had cyclists ring their bell (good) but are so close that they pass me at the same time as I hear it (not quite so good !). It’s all very difficult!
My problem is that many of the bells available nowadays are really quiet, and a single short "ting" really doesn't carry. Some of them are indistinguishable from a phone notification.
I use bone conduction headphones, so my lugholes aren't obstructed.
I'm also a cyclist and ringing my bell always seems rude to me but I do usually shout out that I'm passing either on the left or right.I'm also redoing ct5k and about to start w6
I agree it's best to ring your bell but as I cyclist I have rung my bell and because the walker/runner has ear phones they didn't hear. I also go out in a group cycling we went past 2 runners, the leader shouted passing on left, very loud and clear so we know plus the runners knew, When I past the lady complained whats the leaders problem , unfortunately cyclists/runners cant seem to please each other. I tend to glance over my shoulder more often when out
Definitely agree.. they need to ring the bell giving plenty of notice, and also say thank you when you move over for them! Many do, to be fair.. but not all. Especially important if you are walking or running with a dog, to give you a chance to make sure it is safely out of the way too.
Yes it’s not fair to say it’s everyone. We meet lots of friendly cyclist on our Greenway. Dog walkers too. I notice it’s only the tiny dogs that tend to bother me but that’s a whole different can of worms!!
Back in March I was in London staying by Hyde Park. I got up early in the morning to have a run round the park. Probably my favourite run to date. The only thing that marred it was cyclists. They frequently "buzzed" me when there was plenty of space, they rode where not allowed and cut across the pedestrian crossing on red near the entrance. I am sure it is just a minority but as someone who was injured by a pavement rider it makes me mad there is no comeback.
Yes it’s a whole different story if they’re somewhere they shouldn’t be or are not being careful. I just worried I could have stepped a bit to one side and been in their way.
I also run on canal towpaths, with earphones but I only ever have 1 side in so can hear perfectly well.
I much prefer cyclists to ring a bell. I don't find it rude at all. Bigger issue is when there are a few in line and only the leader rings. On a narrow section I recenter myself into the path of the followers - which are often children! One of these days we are both gonna be taking a swim.
Ring several times as you approach and call out, passing to the left/right is the best advice. Runners, if you are on a path/road/bridleway etc where bikes may be around, don't wear headphones. There are some very good bone-conducting ones that don't block ears, I believe. Cyclists - don't assume that the runner can hear you; many people are hard of hearing! Both sides - take care and look after each other. We all share one increasingly small area to exercise in and we all have the same rights. Let's try and rub along nicely.
So true. When we’re out walking my husband doesn’t hear even if they do ring. As they used to say on Sesame Street when my kids were little - cooperate!!
As a cyclist ring a bell and slow down as I have no idea if someone in front has impaired hearing. When running/walking check behind me before moving out to go past someone.
That’s the problem that I have. I just can’t hear them as I’m mostly deaf. I’ve had some very angry looks and comments from some. I was thinking if there was a vest with a hard of hearing symbol on that could be worn?
Yes, I'm sure there is. I did see a lady out walking several months ago with a hi vis jacket with DEAF WALKER in large print on it, with the crossed out ear symbol. I gave her a wave and a "thumbs up" as I ran past her.
Well said. I started riding bike recently instead of running and to be honest I'm a bit precarious on it. I have to gain my confidence - presumably they passed with no damage!?! I have a bell and will use it but hazards and hotshots I'm wheeling the bike passed at the moment!
Being a cyclist that also runs, it can be really frustrating from either way. When cycling I always use bell, shout whatever, but unfortunately unlike you a lot of runners have their sounds quite loud, eventually you just have to pass, if I end up close, I raise a hand as some sort of acknowledgement of the fact. When running I try to be aware, on narrow tracks I avoid running in the middle, when vegetation allows. Cyclists should try to make presence known and runners need to be aware of surroundings, not always easy when like me your trying not to collapse in a quivering heap😜
I understand now how it was unnerving - feeling a breeze - they must have been flying. Thank you for your encouragement. I started the couch25k three months back but too heavy on the joints. I'm enjoying the cycling it feels so enjoyable - heightened senses and smelling the flowers...I'm leisurely and you probably jog faster than I cycle. Really loving it. I'm taking backroads and moving in when cars behind - folk have been lovely on the whole passing me by at a slow pace...
I doubt I’m faster than you but I enjoyed the thought. I only started running at age 64! I’d not be brave enough to cycle on roads - have you tried Japanese slow running? That might be ok for your joints. Lots of people here swear by it
Ah thanks. You're impressive and inspiring - I'm 56. I will maybe later on try Japanese slow running - trying to keep options open.Have a lovely day Sybilw. I've been out and back today but I'm going to go shortly for a cycle. Just waiting for the rush-hour to pass....
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W8R2..much better (apart from a cyclist trying to wipe me out 🤦🏻♀️)
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Advice please! Struggling at Week 2. 
