I frequently find myself pondering whether I am truly a runner. With the prevalence of Strava metrics and running influencers—let’s refer to them as ‘runfluencers’—it’s easy to get caught up in comparisons. This often leads me to feel inadequate in meeting the perceived standards of being a runner.
I’ve been in the running game for nine years. Throughout this journey, I’ve transformed from a complete beginner into someone who participates in 5k’s, 10k’s, half marathons, and even completed a multi-day ultra marathon last year. Nowadays, I make it a habit to run three times a week and serve as a qualified run leader in my local running group.
Despite these accomplishments, I still catch myself questioning my identity as a runner!
I know I’m not alone in grappling with this. Many, particularly women, often find themselves asking similar questions, which is why I want to delve deeper into the mentality surrounding running. Additionally, I’ll reveal how I combat those negative thoughts and what strategies I’ve employed to feel more like a runner.
Defining the Runner Identity
Let’s simplify things: if you run, you are a runner. At its core, that’s the essence of what defines a runner—someone who engages in running.
However, it’s not quite that straightforward.
We often fall victim to comparing ourselves to others and establishing our own metrics of what constitutes a “real” runner. This could refer to running specific distances, achieving certain speeds, or fitting into the common societal image of a runner.
If you don’t conform to the idealized version of a runner—a slim, lithe figure with gazelle-like grace as portrayed on social media—it’s no wonder you might wonder if you’re truly a runner!
I don’t fit this mold. I’m not particularly fast, my body shape might not scream ‘runner’, I have a peculiar running form, and sometimes I have to push myself to get out there. Yet, I am a runner. A person who runs.
Here are some strategies I have found helpful in overcoming negative self-talk, enabling me to maintain a consistent running routine over the past nine years:
Dress the Part
Even if you feel like a fraud, wearing running attire can help you embody the identity of a runner. For me, slipping on my lycra leggings and a women’s hoodie with an inspiring slogan shifts my mindset.
As a blogger for adidas, I get to select items from their collection and share my insights. When I was assembling my latest adidas selection, I stumbled upon a piece that captured my attention instantly.
This unisex running hoodie is everything I desire: it’s soft, warm, and most importantly, it features a zippered pocket (and if you find joy in pockets like I do, you’re definitely a runner!). The printed slogan on the back—‘Every Pace Has A Place’—resonates deeply.
This phrase encapsulates the idea perfectly. No matter how slow or fast you are, whether you need to take a break to walk, or if you dash ahead swiftly, all of you out there—whether pounding the pavement or navigating trails—you are runners. Don’t let anyone, including yourself, convince you otherwise.
On days when my enthusiasm wanes, donning something that boosts my confidence, like this hoodie, can be just the motivation I need to lace up my shoes and step out the door. Ultimately, it all comes down to little actions that enhance your self-image.
Reframing the Mindset
If you find yourself questioning whether you are a legitimate runner, it may be time for a mental shift. It’s crucial to reshape your narrative to foster a healthier relationship with running.
While external influences can affect our thinking, much of what we internally express can run deeper than social media comparisons. A phrase that helps me when negative thoughts arise is, ‘my thoughts are not facts.’ This mantra brings me back to reality and helps to dispel uninvited thoughts.
Here are a few additional reframings to consider:
- Change – ‘I came in last’
- To – ‘I finished strong’
- Change – ‘What if people laugh at me?’
- To – ‘People admire my commitment’
- Change – ‘I shouldn’t need to walk’
- To – ‘I’m listening to my body’s needs’
- Change – ‘I’m too slow’
- To – ‘Every pace matters’
The key is to adopt a positive mindset. Have faith in yourself, get out there, and recognize that whatever effort you make is more than sufficient.
Avoid Comparisons
It’s common for me to fall into the trap of comparison, not just against others but also reflecting on my previous accomplishments. I know this isn’t healthy, yet I find it hard to resist. When I notice this pattern, I take a break from logging my runs and deactivate all my tracking applications. This way, I no longer see others’ performances, nor can I compare my current runs to my past ones.
Every run is distinct. Your performance on one day may differ greatly from another. It’s also unlikely to mirror someone else’s experience. We should distance ourselves from statistics, stop fixating on numbers, and celebrate each individual run.
A myriad of factors can influence our running performance—poor sleep, lack of nutrition, dehydration, hormonal fluctuations, or even inclement weather. Ultimately, the most important aspect is to engage with the activity and derive joy from it. While enjoying every step might not always be possible (hills can be a challenge!), finishing a run with a smile and a sense of accomplishment is indeed a victory.
Release Guilt
If you’re feeling reluctant about running one day, simply skip it. There are no hard and fast rules regarding how often one should run unless you’re in a training program, in which case it’s wise to adhere to the plan. Otherwise, it’s essential to listen to your body’s signals.
Pay attention to how you feel on physical, mental, and emotional levels during runs. These aspects are better indicators of progress than statistics. I view running as an opportunity to clear my mind. It’s a moment to reconnect with myself, process thoughts, and navigate through any persistent emotions. Sometimes I shed tears during a run, other times I ignite my creativity, and occasionally I channel my anger into speed (which often leads to my quickest runs!). Regardless of the circumstances, I always conclude my run feeling uplifted and with a clear mind.
Rest days hold equal importance as running days and must be integrated into training routines. Choosing to rest doesn’t signify failure; it illustrates resilience. Likewise, if walking becomes necessary during your run, that’s perfectly acceptable. Many ultra-runners opt to walk uphill and sprint on flat expanses, so if you need to take walking breaks, you’re truly in good company. Remember, all forms of movement count.
Concluding Thoughts
At the end of the day, if you run, you’re a runner. Nobody has the authority to dictate what qualifies as a ‘real’ runner. As the adidas hoodie emphasizes—‘every pace has a place’—and you are just as deserving of the title of runner as anyone capable of completing a sub-30 minute 5K!
Therefore, if you ever find yourself mulling over the question, “Am I a real runner?”, I encourage you to revisit this article. Remind yourself that comparisons are unnecessary; instead, nurture your self-belief, lace up those trainers, and head out for a run.
*In collaboration with adidas
Do you ever ponder whether you’re a true runner? What motivates you to stay on track?
Author Bio
Becky Stafferton is a dedicated content creator, web publisher, and blog coach. She aims to promote a balanced, sustainable, and positive approach to healthy living. When not writing or reflecting on her childhood diaries, you can find her splashing through muddy puddles while running, trekking through forests, crafting lists galore, and tackling home renovations in her new countryside abode. Becky also runs BlogWell, a blog coaching company that empowers small business owners to leverage blogging for marketing their enterprises.
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