Every club has its own culture, but these ten rules are universal.

  1. Be on time. Groups usually leave on the minute, especially in the early morning. Arrive 5–10 minutes early.
  2. Introduce yourself if you're new, and say hello to newcomers if you're not.
  3. Pick the right pace group. Start conservatively. Racing the group on an easy day isn't cool.
  4. Respect no-drop runs. If it's no-drop, nobody gets left behind: regroup at corners and turnarounds.
  5. Run max two abreast and go single file on narrow roads. Leave space for other people using the path.
  6. Call out hazards. "Motorbike!", "Hole!", "Stopping!" help the runners behind you.
  7. Follow the route and the leader. Tell someone if you turn back early, so nobody waits for you or goes looking.
  8. Don't litter. Keep gel wrappers and bottles until you find a bin. Leave parks cleaner than you found them.
  9. Be kind on social media. Ask before posting photos of others, and tag the club!
  10. Give back. Pace a slower group once in a while, help at a club event, or bring a newcomer next week.

And the bonus rule: stay for coffee. That's where the friendships are made.