Nov 6, 2006
Today’s Run: Runners Don’t Wave
After a week off of running I hit the road again today. Inspired by Lance Armstrong’s struggle in the NYC Marathon and an unusually nice day for November I just could not go to the gym and do my workout inside, no. After a week of weight lifting and stair-master work, my running form was still were I left it. There was no real form drop off and I felt good as soon as I got outside to start the run.
I started quick with a nice fast pace and did not take a breather until the two mile marker or so to tie my shoes. The rest of the run was quicker than usual, so the small break from running did not hurt at all.
Running culture is not quite like bike culture. When passing cyclist it is usually customary to wave or give a nod, but running does not seem to require the same recognition. On a bike ride I will wave to just about any other cyclist and some runners. Just a small gesture to someone who is out doing the same activity. Most time you get a wave back, I’d say about 90% of the time. Running is a different story. I have noticed the occasional runner give a wave or say hello, but that is the exception , not the rule.
Why do runners simply not wave to each other like cyclist do? Is it because running is so prevalent that it just does not call for the same type of salute? Is it the fact hat just about anyone can run? Does this cut down on the exclusivity of the activity reducing the bond that would encourage one to wave? I don’t know. But it is just one more thing to get used to as you trade the two wheels for running shoes.
Pretty funny observation. Having come from running to cycling, it took me a bit getting used to waving to all cyclists. Being in the south multiplies that by a factor or two, since down here, it seems, everyone says hello or waves no matter what you are doing.
I usually give a nod when running, but it depends how far away the person is. For some reason, the other side of the street doesn’t warrant an acknowledgment unless it is a low traffic road. Same sidewalk gets a nod. Don’t know why, that just seems to be what I have noticed the response is to me over the years. I also think the “serious” runners greet less, but maybe the only greet other serious runners and I don’t qualify.
I think the reason runners greet less is b/c running is inherently painful (even though I love it), so niceties go out the window. Cycling is something you loved as a kid and so it takes you back and reminds you of being carefree. When was the last time you saw a runner smile while running?