I'm known as a run/walk guy. I run for a few minutes, then I walk a minute or so. I've done this since the dawn of my running life. There is something else I've done. When I come upon another runner, and I've been walking, I start to run. Yes, it's stupid. I do this to "prove" I run.
I said that was stupid right? I think because I get asked all the time in stores, "You run?" I feel I have to prove myself out on the road. I don't want another runner to think I don't run. God forbid I be a walker, or a run/walk person.
The truth is, no one is really taking notice of my running, they're into their run. I think we get a sense of how we are perceived when we run. I think this because of the number of times people tell me they think their form is wrong, or they don't look like a "serious" runner.
I have to remember, and I think this is good advice to anyone else going through this, no one cares how you run, because, quite simply it's right foot, left foot, repeat. If someone cares how you run, then they are one of two kinds of people: a coach who wants to help you improve you running, or some petty minded people.
In all my years of running, I've gotten hundreds of thumbs ups, attaboys, and a great deal of encouragement. In that same time, I've only been heckled or bothered once. My friend Bob, who ran with me in Indy at a pretty wet half marathon will remember his yelling back at the heckler.
So stop proving you run....you don't need to prove it to anyone. All you need to do is run.
Charlie
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