20 Things That Only Runners Know To Be True
We love our non-running friends, but there are some things about us they will never understand—especially these 20 things.
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We runners are a unique bunch. We often do things people don’t understand and eat things that many would assume are for babies or astronauts, but we take pride in being part of a unique tribe of people that are committed to being our best selves.
Here are 20 things that we as runners know to be true:
- All of the public restrooms that are accessible on your favorite routes…
- …but if you can’t find a bathroom and you really have to go, you know the best bushes to hide behind for that too.
- Weekends aren’t for partying, they are for long runs.
- Budgeting time and money for races is as essential as budgeting time and money for groceries.
- You’ve made it as a runner when you have a story about your toenails falling off.
- There are few things in life more frustrating than waiting for a Garmin signal at the beginning of a run.
- The first two miles of any run are always the worst.
- t’s okay to stop at traffic lights; it’s really not necessary to jog in place.
- You poop before you leave your house on race day. No questions asked.
- Porta potties near the starting line and during the first two miles of the race will contain the foulest sights and odors you’ve ever experienced.
- Running clothes always take priority on laundry day; jeans can be worn twice, smelly gear cannot.
- The little nod of approval you give/get when running by another runner you cross paths with is everything.
- Cyclists and pedestrians exist to make our lives more complicated.
- There’s always time for a run.
- No matter how you’re feeling when you go out for a run, you’ll be better when you return.
- Having a lacrosse ball is essential (even though you never have nor ever will play the sport).
- An ice bath after a run is best when taken with hot toddy in hand.
- Running is far more mental than physical and pushing past perceived limits is the power of the sport.
- You are strongest and most empowered when crushing a speed workout.
- It takes heart to be a runner and no matter how much you cursed and moaned during your race, the minute you cross the finish line you are already planning for what’s next!