Blind & VI Running: An Overview

Blind running is an inclusive and adaptive form of running where people who are blind or partially sighted are supported—usually by a sighted guide runner—to run safely and confidently. It’s a growing movement that supports physical health, independence, and mental wellbeing.

How Does It Work?

1. Guiding Techniques

• Tethering: The runner and guide are connected by a short tether (often a loop or strap held between them).

• Verbal Cues: The guide gives instructions about terrain, turns, curbs, people, and pace.

• Communication is key—both guide and runner must stay in sync and build trust.

2. Classification (for competition)

• Runners are classified (T11–T13) based on their level of sight.

  • T11: Totally blind (must wear blackout glasses and run with a guide).

  • T12: Severe sight loss (can choose to run with or without a guide).

  • T13: Moderate sight loss (often run without a guide).

Benefits

• Physical fitness and cardiovascular health

• Mental wellbeing—reduces isolation and boosts confidence

• Social connections—running groups foster friendships

• Personal achievement—many blind runners complete races, parkruns, or even marathons!

Equipment

• Running tether (elastic or fabric, usually wrist-held or handheld)

• Comfortable, familiar footwear and clothing

• Optional apps for route planning, fitness tracking, or communication

Getting Involved

For Runners with Sight Loss

• Join a local running club or parkrun—many are guide-friendly.

• Use platforms like:

  • England Athletics’ Find a Guide (UK)

• Reach out to local sight loss charities for events or training.

For Sighted People Wanting to Guide

• Get trained and listed on “Find a Guide” (England Athletics).

• Start by volunteering at parkrun or local running clubs.

• You don’t need to be fast—just reliable, communicative, and encouraging!

Getting Inspired!

Kevin Crompton is a Galloways service user and ambassador for blind running. He takes part in a regular parkrun in Morecambe, takes on regular running challenges like the AJ Bell Great North Run, and has even completed the London Marathon for Galloways!

His Instagram channel is dedicated to his journey as a blind runner, offering useful tips and advice to runners and guide runners, and is hugely inspirational for anyone wanting to get into running – whether you are visually impaired or not!

Check Kevin out (and keep an eye out for his beautiful guide dog, Alan) at Instagram.