Waving at Other Runners Has Always Been Kind of Awkward

Waving is such a funny hit-or-miss activity I constantly encounter on my runs

Extroverted people, including me, love acknowledging their fellow runners.

Something about going for a run almost always results in seeing someone else out on their own run. There will be awkward situations where I’m unsure whether to wave or just focus on myself.

But being the friendly individual I am, I wave and say hello. Some people will acknowledge, others will pretend they don’t see you. I’ve done both too and it’s always funny to me.

Waving at Other Runners is Motivational

Not only will I give quick waves to my fellow runners, but I’ll give them a thumbs up to serve as extra motivation.

Nearly every runner looks like they’re dying including me and we could all use a little acknowledgment for our hard work. Sometimes, cars will honk or give thumbs up on this common road by my house and it gives me energy.

Music is the ultimate energy giver on a difficult run, but when it comes from someone going through the same battle of running, it’s more meaningful.

Runner’s psychology is extremely interesting because the mindset you put yourself in determines how you look at running.

It’s Funny Because We’re Focused on Ourselves

I don’t go on runs to look for attention from runners or anyone out on the roads. The goal is to get my body moving and arrive home feeling refreshed and energized from accomplishing a workout.

Runners, bikers, walkers, and literally anyone outside are likely focused on themselves and doing it to benefit their health.

Nearly every single run pumps me up. I get this energy inside of me that makes me want to wave at everyone and help motivate them.

Prior to the pandemic, I’d wave at someone running in the same direction as me, and in some cases run together and talk — I used to be that outgoing.

Waving Brings Back Nostalgic Memories from Races

Ever since the Covid pandemic, I haven’t been able to sign up for a race such as the Chicago Marathon or the Rock n Roll Marathon Series races.

I miss running through uncharted areas and crossing the finish line like I was in the limelight.

Seeing my family and the crowds supporting all of us runners put me in such a good move because they get to celebrate my accomplishment with me.

Topping off a high-intensity run feeling runner’s high and roaring crowds is a feeling that only compares to getting introduced at my high school football games.

Connecting with other runners through simple gestures such as a wave is simple, takes almost no effort, and always makes me laugh.

Final Thought

I challenge you to wave at a fellow runner or biker on your next workout. Nothing but positivity and energy can come out of it.

If you don’t get acknowledged back, just return to jamming out to your music and focusing on yourself.

Being in the Pandemic makes everyone more distanced from one another, but a harmless wave could change someone’s entire day.