Skip to main content

Host Best Practices

Great hosts create great experiences. Here are proven practices from successful hosts in our community.

Before the Run

🗓️ Be Consistent

Schedule runs at regular times. Runners appreciate predictability — "Every Saturday at 9am" is easier to remember than random dates.

💬 Use the Group Chat

Reach out to confirmed participants beforehand:

  • Welcome them to the run
  • Share any last-minute details
  • Build anticipation

A simple "Looking forward to seeing you all tomorrow!" goes a long way.

📍 Clarify the Meeting Point

Even with a Google Maps link, it helps to add specifics:

  • "I'll be wearing a red cap"
  • "Meet at the park entrance near the fountain"
  • "Look for the group stretching by the benches"

During the Run

⏰ Be On Time

Arrive 5-10 minutes early. First impressions matter, especially for new runners who might be nervous.

👋 Welcome Everyone

Take a moment to introduce yourself and help participants meet each other. A quick round of names makes the group feel more connected.

🏃 Know Your Pace

Run at the pace you advertised. If someone's struggling, check in — but don't push your group beyond what they signed up for.

🌍 Share Local Knowledge

You're the local expert! Point out interesting spots, share stories about the area, recommend places to grab coffee afterward.

After the Run

✅ Complete Promptly

Mark your run as complete so participants can rate and share their experience while it's fresh.

💬 Thank Participants

Send a quick message in the group chat thanking everyone for coming. It leaves a warm impression.

📝 Be Open to Feedback

Ratings and comments help you improve. Even constructive criticism is valuable — it shows what runners want.

Building Your Reputation

ActionImpact
Consistent schedulingRunners know when to expect you
Responsive communicationBuilds trust before they show up
Accurate descriptionsNo surprises = happy runners
Welcoming attitudeRunners come back and recommend you

Remember

  • You're creating community, not just running routes
  • Every runner was new once — be the host you'd want to meet
  • Quality over quantity — better to host fewer great runs than many mediocre ones

Back to: All Host Guides →