What Makes You a Runner?

Lately we’ve been talking about the concept of running vs. jogging. While I can be as self righteous as anyone when it comes to running, I tend to feel pretty strongly that it doesn’t matter. Running is personal. It’s what you make of it. The cliche that you get out what you put in is painfully true when it comes to running. To me, the only thing that classifies someone as a jogger is when they go out once, then stop. They jogged that day, and they are not a runner. I pull my bike out of the garage twice a year, but I am not a cyclist.

In my opinion, and this is my personal opinion, you are a runner if …

• You have a goal, and you train to achieve that goal (even if it’s completing a 5K).

• You distinguish between easy and hard runs, and enjoy them both, for different reasons.

• Running is part of your lifestyle.

• You are comfortable being uncomfortable.

• You agonize over whether your fall race will be a full or a half marathon, or if this is the year to take a break from racing.

• You’ll run in the pouring rain, falling snow and wind that feels like a brick wall.

• You work to break records — your records.

• You listen to music that inspires you. Whether it’s Lionel Richie telling you to take it Easy, or Motley Crue Kickstarting Your Heart, it’s OK to be affected by music.

• You wear real running shoes and clothes. It’s not simply a fashion show; you wear it for the performance.

You probably have your own list of reasons, but that’s what makes this sport so amazing. It’s you, running for you. Because you’re a runner. – Amie