Let’s face it: we runners are a weird, wonderful, and slightly eccentric bunch. From the way we prep for a run to the strange rituals we follow afterwards, running isn’t just a sport—it’s a lifestyle. Here’s a lighthearted look at the quirks that make us who we are…

Disclaimer – if these don’t apply to you, we apologise – it is a tongue-in-cheek, light-hearted article and not an evaluation of every runner out there! 

Mid-Run Selfies

We claim we’re not vain, yet somehow every scenic route ends up on Instagram. Bonus points for catching the sunset behind our sweaty faces.

Shoe Obsession

Runners don’t just buy shoes—we embark on epic quests to find the perfect pair. We analyse tread patterns, stack heights, and midsole foam like scientists prepping for a moon landing. Once chosen, these shoes become family. We give them affectionate nicknames like “Speed Demons” for race day or “Old Faithfuls” for those trusty pairs that always get us through long runs. And we never have enough – a pair for training, a pair for racing, a pair for off-road, a pair for speedwork, a pair for rotating with the pairs we already have, a pair because we liked the colour, and the list goes on…

Running in Loops for the Perfect Mileage

Most runners have done it: hitting 4.97 miles and running back and forth outside their house until the watch reads exactly 5.0. Stopping short feels like a crime against Strava, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a neat round number? Better make it 5.01 just in case though!

The Mid-Run Negotiations

During every long run, there’s a moment when you start bargaining with yourself: “If I make it to the next lamppost, I’ll take a break.” But by the time you reach it, you’ve negotiated a new deal: “OK, just one more block, and then I’ll definitely stop.” Spoiler alert: you rarely do.

The Pre-Run Poo

A run cannot be undertaken unless the pre-run poo has taken place. If we don’t poo, we convince ourselves there is going to be a crisis. Not great when you roll out of bed with 10 minutes to spare and need time for the morning coffee to take effect.

The “Outfit Crisis”

Runners will spend more time picking the perfect gear than actually running. Should I go for the moisture-wicking shirt or the one that “feels lucky”? And don’t forget about matching the socks to the shoes. Because, obviously, if your outfit’s off, your run will be too.

Chasing Strangers

We swear it’s not a race. But if someone overtakes us? Oh, it’s on. Suddenly, you’re Usain Bolt, sprinting to reclaim your honour. They might not even realise it, but in your mind, they’ve already lost.

Overthinking the Weather

Runners are walking weather apps. We obsessively check the forecast, debate layering strategies, and then complain anyway: “Too humid,” “Wind’s against me,” or my personal favourite, “It’s sunny, but somehow still cold!”

Talking Endlessly About Running

Ever notice how we can turn any conversation into a running story? “Oh, you’re going to Paris? I ran a half marathon there once!” or “Friday night drinks? OK, but I have to be up early for my long run on Saturday”

Foam Rolling Drama

Foam rolling is equal parts love and torture. We know it’s good for us, but the noises we make while doing it? Somewhere between a groan and a cry for help. The dog thinks I’m dying every time.

Pre-Run Fuelling Rituals

Ask a runner what they ate before their run, and you’ll get an essay. Banana and peanut butter? Perfect. Too much water? Disaster. Not enough coffee? You might as well skip the run. Pre-run nutrition is science—no, it’s art.

The “Too Many Gels” Regret

At some point, every runner has tried every gel flavour known to humankind…and regretted at least half of them

Running Playlist Debates

The playlist is sacred. One wrong song can ruin the vibe. Why does “Eye of the Tiger” hit so hard at mile three but feel totally wrong at mile eight? It’s an art form only runners understand.

The Medal Display Shrine

Medals aren’t just awards; they’re proudly displayed treasures. Some runners even consider redecorating their entire homes around their race bibs and bling.

Waving at Other Runners

Runner etiquette demands a subtle nod or wave to passing runners. Miss one? The guilt is real. “Did they think I was rude? Are we not part of the same running tribe? Should I go back and apologise?”

The “Stride Check” in Store Windows

Catch a glimpse of yourself running past a reflective surface? Instant form check. Bonus points for pretending you didn’t just admire your stride.

Post-Run Bragging

We’re humble… until we’re not. Every run gets uploaded to Strava, with captions like “easy jog” (even though we nearly collapsed at the finish). And don’t forget the obligatory sweaty selfie—proof it really happened.

Unstoppable Post-Race Hunger

Runners will burn 800 calories and eat 4,000 because “I earned it.” Cue a buffet that rivals Thanksgiving dinner.

Celebrating Rest Days

Ah, the holy grail: the rest day. We spend it stretching, rehydrating, and convincing ourselves that sitting still is part of the plan. By the evening, though, we’re itching to lace up our shoes again.

At the end of the day, running is more than just a sport—it’s a lifestyle full of quirks and habits that bring us joy, humour, and occasionally sore calves. And honestly? We wouldn’t have it any other way.