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
| Action | Impact |
|---|---|
| Consistent scheduling | Runners know when to expect you |
| Responsive communication | Builds trust before they show up |
| Accurate descriptions | No surprises = happy runners |
| Welcoming attitude | Runners 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
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