Guide Lingo

VI/B RUNNER Visually Impaired or Blind Runner CUEING Involves the guide giving the VI/B runner information on upcoming changes in terrain, turns, barriers, etc. Cues can be verbal or physical. ELBOW GUIDING The guide holds the VI/B runner’s arm just above the elbow. Not generally recommended for longer runs, but it has the benefit of immediate contact and control. FLEXIBLE TETHER Anything hand-held that is used to connect the guide and runner together. Doug has used T-shirts, shoe laces or rubber seals. Carolyn and Maria often use an exercise band as a tether. The tether is normally about 45 cm long, but can vary in length. Usually, less sighted runners will require a shorter tether. NO TETHER If a VI/B runner has partial vision, they may choose to run with a guide, but without a tether. In this case, the VI/B runner follows closely behind the guide and follows his or her movements. Verbal cues are used exclusively. RIGID TETHER Rigid tethers such as a stick or cane can be used when the VI/B runner prefers a closer connection to the guide. WAIST TETHER A flexible tether that goes around both the runner and guide’s waists. This allows both parties full freedom and flexibility in their arm movements while still maintaining a connection.