How to run like a true gentleman

There is most likely a law somewhere, drawn up by someone who is never late, that will say something along the lines of: "If thoust a gentleman, thou shalt not run."

Of course this would excuse the pursuit of running per se, as in running for fitness, dashing along in a pair of Asics and some shorts. The law will instead apply to those times when a gent is dressed in everyday attire, such as whence making one's way to work. At such times it would be preferable to saunter, or stroll, paying attention to the environment and taking interest in the life on the street.

It's true that running while suited is a vulgar, undignified pursuit which can ruin the cut of one's jib and as such is something one should rightly be advised to avoid. However, it might on occasion be necessary to break into a light jog or a full sprint in order to make the bus, train, flight or appointment.

To that end, and as a person with a lifestyle demanding of at least one full-on bolt per day, I have deamed it wise to set out guidelines as to what will henceforth be known as the Gentleman's Sprint.

The Gentleman's Sprint is measured by performance and grace. Unlike the wild-eyed self-preservation dash undertaken while attempting to out-run a rabid dog, or a herd of cows, the Gentleman's Sprint must at all times appear as effortless and entirely intentional.

The above can be achieved by taking note of a few considerations. Before setting off, check outerwear, shoes, bags, hats etc for loose buckles, unfastened buttons and zips. The last thing you want is for your coat to start flapping around like Superman's cape while the contents of your case spills across the platform and your hat launches itself under the wheels of a train. In the same manner ensure shoes are sturdy enough to take a good pounding.

Most important of all is one's posture. At all times, stick chest and chin out, taking purposeful strides that say "I'm coming through and you will not stop me." Keep an arm free to deflect old people, or mothers with pushchairs.

If a ticket barrier threatens to impede progress, approach it like an Olympian at the hurdles, clear it in one bound and resume your stride.

A final dive toward the train doors is inadvisable, but if you've got that far and the train appears within reach then any method at your disposal to reach it is acceptable. This will henceforth be known as the Last Second Rule.

Follow these guidelines and you will not only reach your preferred method of public transport or place of employment, but you will have done so with a degree of dignity, excluding of course the Last Second Rule.

And you will feel confident that you can do the exact same thing all over again the next day, with your head held high.

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