Running is a social sport when it’s happening off the treadmill. Even if you’re running in public alone, there’s usually some camaraderie among neighborhood runners. While it’s OK to wave or say hi, in order to stop the spread of germs, you should continue to maintain your distance during this time.

Your breathing becomes heavy and fast when you’re running. Add that to the fact that you’re outdoors in the wind, and that’s a recipe for an increase in respiratory droplets spreading more quickly. Coronavirus can spread through those droplets, according to the World Health Organization. If someone coughs or sneezes while running 6 feet ahead of you, the droplets could still reach you. Try staying 10 to 12 feet away from other outdoor runners or walkers.

As temperatures warm, more people are going to be outdoors making the most of the weather, which means trails and recreational areas might get more crowded. Some parks and trails are closed, but not all are. To follow through with guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, choose trails that are less inhabited and use social distancing at all times.

Group runs should be avoided and if you have to run with a partner, it’s better to run with someone you share air with daily, like a spouse or a roommate, rather than a friend or neighbor in a different household. Instead of catching up on a run, stay in touch with loved ones via video calls or social media.

If you are going to be running with someone you live with, just because you breathe the same air doesn’t mean you can run side by side. Whether you’re running for fun or training for a marathon, your running buddy can still support you from 6 feet away.

You may know how to wear a face mask properly, but outdoor running could make things a bit tricky. If you’re wearing a single-use mask, throw it out afterward. Surgical masks that become damp or wet are no longer effective. If you’re using a homemade mask, try using one that is made from a material that will wick away sweat, or use a neck gaiter, which also covers your nose and mouth tightly.

Because your face is covered, you might notice that it is more difficult to breathe. Slow your pace and adjust to running under these new conditions. If you find it hard to do so, try breaking up your workout schedule. Incorporate some at-home workouts rather than running every day.

Running is a great way to stay active and keep your immune system strong, but if you are sick or were recently exposed to COVID-19, the CDC advises to stay away from parks and recreational areas. If you are infected but not showing symptoms, the American College of Sports Medicine says that continuing moderately intense workouts in quarantine is OK, but that you should stop if you develop symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath or a cough.

If you aren’t sick but still feel the urge to cough or sneeze, use a tissue if you have one in your pocket or use your sleeve near your elbow. Avoid using your hands to cough or catch a sneeze. If you did use your sleeve, wash your clothes when you return home. Putting your athletic clothing in the wash is just one way to keep a healthy home and kill the germs.

When you’re doing a virtual workout class at home, you can feel comfortable using your own equipment so long as you sanitize it regularly. When you’re out on a run and need to stop and stretch, though, avoid touching surfaces such as benches, crosswalk buttons or even park equipment.

Drinking an adequate amount of water is crucial for your health. Similar to not touching public equipment or rest areas, it’s also a smart idea to bring your own water bottle or wait until you get home to use your own tap water.

Just like you’d avoid going to the grocery store at peak times, try avoiding trails or parks during busy hours. If you notice the neighborhood is busy during lunchtime or after 5 p.m. when many people are shutting their work laptops for the day, try rearranging your runs for early morning or later at night.

Low-impact workouts that still break a sweat are a great way to break up your workout schedule while helping you balance cardio with strength training. If trails or parks seem crowded on the weekends, use those days to work out at home instead.

If your normal running route consists of a rest stop at the park or stopping at a friend’s house in the neighborhood, stay at least 6 feet away and avoid socializing in large groups. When talking, make sure your mask covers your nose and mouth.

Many runners have a few routes that become routine, and they like sticking to those familiar roads and paths. Be aware of your surroundings and be willing to take a left turn instead of a right if you see crowds up ahead, or be prepared to cross the street if you see someone approaching and need space to avoid them. Whether you’re running to stay fit or to lose weight, here are 50 exercises to keep you moving.

More from The Active Times

Small Acts of Kindness That Can Be Done from Your Home During the Coronavirus Pandemic

How to Save Money on Cleaning Supplies

Simple Ways to Deal With Everyday Stress

The Best Caves in the World

How Do I Rebook a Trip Canceled Due to Coronavirus?