UK Coaching

• For the visually impaired (VI) runners on the start line, their approach to this famous route will differ from their sighted counterparts.
• Just as there are misconceptions about blindness itself, many people are confused about how VI people run.
• The reality is that, like all runners, VI runners have diverse experiences, preferences and needs.
• Through touch, hearing, smell and usable vision, VI runners actively develop unique relationships with the routes they run.

Barriers to running

• With VI people being one of the most inactive minority groups, running can be inclusive, empowering and provide a range of social and physical benefits.
• But there are a number of societal barriers to VI people getting and staying involved in running.
• In the US, an innovative project using guide dogs trained for running has led to positive outcomes for both runners and dogs.
• For VI runners who prefer running indoors, the treadmills used in many gyms are inaccessible.

How you can get involved

• The event’s inclusive ethos and specific efforts to encourage VI runners have created a welcoming and accessible environment.
• Prospective runners and guides can also connect informally through parkruns, running clubs, local VI organisations or running organisations like Achilles International.

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.