My Definition of a “Real Runner”

What exactly is a “real runner” anyway?

Ever since I started running, I’ve often wondered when I would be considered a real runner. Some people also asked me how I felt about being called a “jogger.”

What is a real runner?

A real runner is anyone who puts on a pair of running shoes and runs. They do not need to run a sub-8 minute mile to be considered a real runner.

Unfortunately, some people have said that anyone who is not capable of going faster than 10 minutes per mile should be called a jogger.

Truthfully, back when I started running, I was lucky if I could even maintain a 13-minute mile. When I struggled as a beginner runner, I had people tell me I wasn’t a real runner because I wasn’t fast enough. Ouch. That hurt. However, I kept at it, and eventually, I was able to maintain a 7-minute mile for 10k. As a beginner, I didn’t need to hear why I wasn’t a real runner when all I wanted was a little bit of encouragement.

At the end of the day, if you run, no matter how fast or how slow, you are a runner. Give yourself the credit you deserve and stop putting some arbitrary numerical value on what some people say separates the joggers from the runners. You are so much more than your pace and there is so much more to running than that.

Whether you run or jog, you will still get the health benefits of cardiovascular activity. The pace you choose to go is entirely up to you. Your pace and the rate at which you improve often depends on what you are trying to get out of your exercise routine, your starting point, and your injury history. I urge you not to compare yourself to other runners nor feel bad if you aren’t able to go faster than 10 minutes per mile.

When did I become a real runner?

I believe I became a real runner the moment I joined my junior high cross-country running team way back in Grade 7. To be honest, I finished dead last in many of my first few races. I wasn’t naturally athletic nor fast, and that is okay.

I still think that back then, I was still a real runner. I trained consistently and tried very hard to improve. Later on, I improved immensely and I was winning races. However, I referred to myself as a real runner long before I ever won any races even though there were many people who tried to discourage me.

How do I feel about being called a jogger?

Honestly, I have far more important things to worry about now than wondering if people consider me a runner or a jogger. Sometimes, I run and other times, I jog.

Every pace has a purpose in my training schedule. Sometimes I need to go faster. Other times, I need to recover and go significantly slower.

Let’s stop being overly concerned about our pace and how it compares to other people. Instead, let’s focus on creating an inclusive community that inspires people to lead a healthier lifestyle.

You should strive to improve your pace if that’s your goal. You can definitely keep aiming higher. I encourage you to try new and challenging workouts. It’s fun to do hills and speedwork, as well as attempt to run longer than you thought possible. If you need some structure in your schedule, you can follow running programs. However, next time you see someone running slower than you, I urge you to encourage them.

Don’t get mad if someone calls you a jogger. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter what anyone thinks of your pace.

Be grateful that your body lets you do the things you love. Strive towards being an ambassador for this amazing sport.

Running is awesome for many reasons. It’s not expensive. You can do it anytime and anywhere, and it doesn’t require a lot of equipment. You will make great new friends. You will enjoy a lot of free food at races.

Remember: if you put on a pair of running shoes and get out the door, then you have every right to call yourself a runner.

The open roads are always waiting for you.