Training Guide

 

                     ACHILLES RUNNING CLUB — Guiding Tips
  1. Introduce yourself
 
  1. Make sure you know what the person's disability is - if they are vision impaired, ask what they can and can't see.
 
  1. Ask which side is best to guide on.
 
  1. Do not rush - you must feel that you are in control. You must relax, enjoy the experience and have fun.
 
  1. Start slowly.
 
  1. Give clear, loud commands.
 
  1. Commands include these: "ramp up, ramp down, come left, come right, uneven/rough ground, tuck in close, step up, step down, stop".
 
  1. If the unexpected happens and you are losing control of the situation, say "STOP" and stop immediately
 
  1. Do not give unnecessary commands and information about obstacles- it makes concentrating harder
 
  1. However, do tell about things of interest - scenery, flowers etc.
 
  1. Try to allow more room between you and obstacles/cars than is necessary in case of the unpredictable
 
  1. Approach steps at 90 degrees. Pause (not stop) before negotiating stairs. Walk up/down stairs - don't run. Offer a hand rail if available
 
  1. When you are in a normal environment, make sure you are must be next to the person, not in front or behind
 
  1. Relax your arm and hand holding the guiding strap - the strap must not be taut. If it is tight, movement is being impeded
 
  1. If you are going through a narrow area, always lead; the blind person will follow you (guide from the front, not the back) .
 
  1. When going past low obstructions eg bollards, line the blind person up to keep going straight and you move to avoid the obstacle
 
  1. if people ahead are blocking your path, warn pedestrians ahead by calling/shouting "blind runner coming through" 
 
  1. Ask questions during the walking/running session: e.g. how can I best guide you? Ask for feedback during the exercise session as to how you are guiding
 
  1. Give relevant commands at ANY time you need to - never hold back relevant information because you are interrupting conversation 
 
  1. It is your responsibility to keep the athlete with a disability safe. If you are having trouble guiding, please ask for help. 
 

MISSION STATEMENT

"To enable people from all walks of life, including those with physical impairments, to enjoy the health giving benefits of walking and running in a supportive, social and encouraging environment."

Contact us to find out more about becoming an Achilles Member or Volunteer.

 

 

LATEST EVENTS:

2nd-3rd March 2012 - Hollows Foundation Coastrek 2012

4th March 2012 - Orange Running Festival

14-15th April 2012 - Canberra Running Festival

20th May 2012 - Sydney Half Marathon

12th August 2012 - City to Surf

 

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