It’s a contemplation I grapple with frequently – am I genuinely a runner? In a landscape filled with Strava stats and those seemingly picture-perfect ‘runfluencers’, it becomes increasingly challenging not to draw comparisons. This often leads to the unsettling notion that one doesn’t quite fit the mold of what constitutes a runner.
Having been a runner for nine years, I transitioned from a complete beginner to completing various distances, including 5ks, 10ks, half marathons, and even participating in a multi-day ultra marathon last year. Nowadays, I hit the pavement three times a week and serve as a certified running leader for my local group.
Despite these accomplishments, I still find myself questioning my identity as a runner!
I’m aware that I’m not alone in this struggle. Many individuals, particularly women, grapple with this question, prompting me to delve deeper into the mindset surrounding running. I also intend to share how I combat such negative thoughts and what I do to embrace my runner identity.
Defining a Runner
Let’s clarify this concept – if you run, then you are a runner. It’s that straightforward. However, the reality is more nuanced.
We often find ourselves measuring our worth against others and establishing criteria for what makes a “real” runner. Those criteria might include distance, pace, or even how a “typical” runner is represented visually.
If you don’t conform to the idealized image of a lean, fleet-footed runner often showcased online, it’s only natural to start questioning your legitimacy as a runner!
I definitely don’t embody that ideal. I’m not particularly fast, my body doesn’t fit the stereotypical mold, I have an unusual running gait, and I frequently have to summon motivation to head out for a run. Yet, I am indeed a runner. A person who runs.
Here are some strategies I employ to quiet those negative thoughts and maintain my running habit over the past nine years:
Wear the Right Gear
Even when feeling like a total fraud, donning running attire can help shift your mindset to feel like a true runner. For me, it’s the combination of lycra leggings and a cozy hoodie adorned with a motivational slogan.
As an adidas blogger, I get to select items from their website to review, which is quite the perk! While curating my latest adidas collection, I stumbled upon a piece that immediately resonated with me.
This gender-neutral running hoodie encompasses everything I desire: it’s comfortable, warm, and, most importantly, it features a zippered pocket (if you’re as excited about pockets as I am, you’re likely a runner!). The standout element for me was the slogan across the back – ‘Every Pace Has A Place’.
This message perfectly encapsulates the essence of running. It doesn’t matter if you’re slow, if you need to take breaks, or if you’re incredibly fast. Every one of you who steps out in running shoes, whether on the pavement or trails, is a runner. Don’t let anyone (including yourself) make you think otherwise.
On days I feel less than enthusiastic about running, putting on something that lifts my mood, like this hoodie, can make all the difference and motivate me to step outside. It’s about those small actions that foster self-encouragement.
Transform Your Perspective
If you’re pondering the question of whether you’re a real runner, it’s likely time for a shift in how you perceive running. You have the power to reshape this narrative to foster a healthier relationship with your running journey.
While external influences certainly play a role, the narratives we create for ourselves can be deeply ingrained. A helpful mantra I repeat during bouts of negativity is, “my thoughts are not facts.” This reminds me to ground myself and dismiss those uninvited intrusive thoughts.
Here are some reframes you might consider:
- From – ‘I finished last’
To – ‘I finished strong’
- From – ‘They might laugh at me’
To – ‘They’re impressed by my effort’
- From – ‘If I walk, I’m failing’
To – ‘I’m listening to my body’
- From – ‘I run too slowly’
To – ‘Every pace is valid’
Adopting a positive mindset is crucial. Have faith in yourself, take action, and recognize that whatever effort you put forth is sufficient.
Avoid the Comparison Trap
I often find myself spiraling into comparisons, scrutinizing not only others’ achievements but also reflecting on my own past performances. I realize this isn’t healthy, yet I still struggle to break free from it. When that happens, I take a break from recording my runs and stop using tracking apps. This removes the temptation to compare my metrics with others or even my previous runs.
Each running session is unique. How you feel on one occasion won’t be replicated in subsequent runs or when comparing with another person. It’s essential to move away from numerical assessments, celebrate your accomplishments, and simply enjoy the process of running.
Numerous external factors influence our performance – inadequate sleep, poor nutrition, hydration levels, hormonal fluctuations, and weather conditions, to name a few. What truly matters is your ability to step out and have fun. While a run may not always be enjoyable, finishing with a sense of accomplishment and positivity is invaluable.
Release Any Guilt
If you’re not feeling up to running one day, take a pass. There are no strict rules regarding how frequently or when you should run unless you’re following a training plan. In that case, adhering to your schedule is important! Otherwise, prioritize listening to your body.
Focus on how you feel physically, mentally, and emotionally during your runs. These indicators are far more indicative of your growth than raw data. I view running as a time to clear my mind, reconnect with myself, and process whatever emotions arise. Some runs may lead to tears; others spark creative inspiration, and some just channel my frustration (and those often become my quickest!). Regardless of the circumstance, I always conclude my runs with a sense of clarity and well-being.
Rest days are just as crucial as running days and should always be integrated into your training regimen. Choosing to take a break signifies strength, not weakness. Furthermore, if you find yourself needing to walk during a run, that’s entirely acceptable. Many ultra-runners walk uphill and run the flat sections, so you’re in great company if you have to do the same. Remember, any movement counts.
Final Thoughts
The essence of the matter is this: if you run, you are a runner. No one else has the authority to define what a ‘real’ runner is. As my adidas hoodie proclaims – ‘every pace has a place,’ and you are equally entitled to the title of runner as anyone capable of completing a sub-30 5K!
So when you catch yourself pondering whether you are truly a real runner, revisit this article and remind yourself that comparison is unnecessary. What matters is believing in yourself, lacing up your trainers, and getting out there to run.
*in collaboration with adidas
Do you ever ponder whether you’re a genuine runner? What keeps you motivated?
About the Author
Becky Stafferton is a content creator, web publisher, and blog coach dedicated to promoting a practical, sustainable approach to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. When not writing or revisiting her teenage diary, she enjoys running through muddy trails, hiking in nature, making endless lists, expressing her frustrations, renovating her newly acquired countryside home, and squatting like it’s a necessity. She is also the founder of BlogWell, a company that provides blog coaching for small business owners looking to enhance their marketing through blogging.