Ultra Trail Racing Etiquette – Essential Tips

Ultra trail racing is a unique blend of athleticism and respect for the environment and fellow runners. Here are some essential etiquette tips to ensure a positive and safe experience for everyone:

Respect the Rules

When you sign up for a trail race, you are agreeing to follow the rules set by the organizer. To avoid any misunderstandings, conflicts, penalties, or even disqualifications, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the race rules. Most race websites also include an F.A.Q. section where common questions are addressed.

Before contacting the organizer with any questions about the race or rules, make sure to first read the rules and F.A.Q.s. If your question is still not answered, feel free to reach out to the organizer.

Remember, organizers cannot make exceptions for individual runners. Allowing exceptions for one participant would be unfair to all others. It’s important to treat the rules as consistent and non-negotiable for everyone.

Event organizers often send out crucial information via emails or race briefings to help participants prepare. These communications typically include important updates like schedule changes, safety protocols, event logistics, and other last-minute details that can affect race day. It’s essential to read the emails thoroughly and, if available, attend the race briefing to clarify any doubts and ensure you’re fully prepared.

Leave No Trace

There is no excuse—if you can carry something to the race, you can carry it with you until you find a designated place to dispose of it properly. Keep the trails clean and free of wrappers, including those from gels, bars, and energy blocks.

The paths and surroundings of refreshment stations must be as clean after the competitors pass as they were before. Consume food and drinks within the refreshment station area and use your personal cups.

Many of us assume that biodegradable waste is “absorbed” by nature, but think about this: would you toss food leftovers (orange peels, banana peels, bread crusts, etc.) around your own garden? Probably not. So don’t do it in nature either. Dispose of all food waste in the bins provided at the refreshment stations.

Do Not Make Excess Noise

It’s important to make your presence known to wildlife to avoid surprise encounters. Using a bear bell, engaging in normal conversation with fellow runners, clapping your hands occasionally, or tapping your running poles is perfectly fine and even recommended.

However, avoid making unnecessary or excessive noise on the trails. Leave portable music speakers at home, and refrain from shouting or screaming—unless it’s to call for help or assistance in an emergency.  If you pass any towns or villages during the night make sure you do not disturb the locals. Ultra trail races are about respecting the natural environment and the others.

Be Friendly and Smile 😄

The trail running community is built on camaraderie and mutual respect. Greet other runners, share a smile, and foster the friendly atmosphere that makes our sport so special.

Extend the same kindness to volunteers and race crew. These individuals work tirelessly—often just as exhausted as the runners—to ensure the event runs smoothly. A simple “thank you” can make their day and show appreciation for their efforts.

Remember, without the dedication of volunteers, there would be no races. Let’s celebrate their contribution with gratitude and positivity!

Volunteer for Races

The best way to truly appreciate the dedication and effort of race volunteers is to step into their shoes. Consider giving back to the trail running community by volunteering at a race. Most events have contact forms or volunteer registration available on their websites, making it easy to sign up.

Make it a goal to volunteer at least once per season. Not only will you gain a new perspective on the behind-the-scenes work that makes races possible, but you’ll also contribute to the sense of community that defines trail running. Your time and energy can make a difference!

Keep Your Ears Open

Stay safe on the trails by staying alert to the sounds of nature and those around you. Listen carefully for wildlife, other runners, or any potential hazards. Running without earphones allows you to fully immerse yourself in the relaxing sounds of nature and stay aware of your surroundings.

If you prefer running with earphones, make sure the volume is low enough that you can still hear what’s happening around you. Your safety and the ability to respond to the environment should always come first!

Passing

The proper way to pass other runners is to prioritize safety for both yourself and the person you are overtaking. Never assume that the slower runner ahead is aware of your intention to pass.

When you plan to pass, politely announce your intent and the side you will pass on using a commonly understood phrase in your community, such as, “On your left, thank you!” If you are the slower runner about to be overtaken, do not block the faster runner and let him pass. 

Running Behind Someone on Technical Terrain

When running behind someone on technical terrain, such as steep downhills, always maintain a safe distance. If you wish to pass, announce your intention politely as previously described. However, if you plan to follow, keeping a safe distance is essential:

• Avoid unnecessary pressure: Don’t crowd the runner ahead, as it can make them feel rushed or uncomfortable.
• Prevent accidents: If you slip, maintaining distance ensures you won’t trip or collide with the runner ahead, potentially causing a chain reaction.

On the other hand, if you are the slower or less comfortable runner and you sense a faster runner behind you, move to the side when it is safe to do so and allow them to pass. This consideration ensures safety and a better experience for both of you.

Stay on Trails

Running off designated trails can damage the surrounding environment and may violate local laws or area regulations. To minimize your impact, always stick to established and marked trails. By doing so, you help preserve the natural landscape and ensure that future runners can enjoy the beauty of the trail without harm to the environment.

Plan Your Nutrition for Safety and Carry Mandatory Gear

Properly planning your nutrition and hydration for long runs and races is crucial to avoid bonking, dehydration, or other serious health risks. Bring enough water, energy bars, gels, electrolytes, or any other essentials you need to safely complete the distance.

Always carry the mandatory gear listed by the race organizers. These items are not optional; they are included for your safety. Ignoring these requirements or failing to carry adequate nutrition and water not only endangers you but also those who may have to assist in an emergency. Additionally, your negligence could disrupt the race for others who might have to step in and provide help. Take responsibility for your safety and respect the efforts of everyone involved in the race.

Poles

Using poles can be a great aid in trail running, but they can also pose a danger if not handled properly. If you are unsure how to use poles safely, it’s better to leave them at home.

Always ensure that the tips of your poles are pointing downward, away from the torso or eyes of the runners behind you. Keep your poles close to your body to avoid obstructing the trail and make sure you’re not blocking the path for others. Safety should always come first, for both you and those around you.

Common Courtesy

During ultra races, our bodies undergo immense physical stress, and natural bodily functions can sometimes take unexpected turns. Whether it’s farting, spitting, or nose-blowing, these are all part of the experience 😄. However, it’s important to be mindful of those around you.

If you need to perform any of these actions, try to avoid affecting others, especially the runners behind or beside you. Few things are more unpleasant than having someone’s spit or nasal discharge land on you. On climbs, for example, be aware of the direction you’re facing when releasing any gas—consider how your actions might affect others. Respect for fellow runners is key to maintaining a positive and considerate race environment.

Refreshment Stations

Planning the supplies for refreshment stations along the race route and at the finish line is a complex task for the race organizer. Despite having data from previous editions or similar events, many unpredictable factors affect the actual needs and consumption on race day — such as weather, temperature, humidity, DNF rates, and the runners themselves.

The last thing organizers and volunteers at the stations need is yet another variable — the wasteful behavior of runners. While you are welcome to enjoy all that the station has to offer, please refrain from touching everything with dirty hands. Do not drink directly from bottles or cans; instead, pour the drink into your cup.

Once again, use common sense, practice courtesy, and show respect for fellow runners, volunteers, and the organizer.