So, are you fast?
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Speed is relative—and it's not the only thing that matters when it comes to running. If you want to get cheeky, you can respond: "Probably faster than you."
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Your Next RaceDid you win the race?
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It can be tough for non-runners to understand how we can lose a race and still be ecstatic about our performance. Tell them all about your training and your quest for a PR. The more long-winded you are, the less likely they are to ask ever again!
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Your Next RaceAren't you going to ruin your knees?
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Every so often, runner's knees make headlines, but a recent study suggests that there's no increased risk of arthritic knee pain amongst runners. Sure, it's possible running could cause pain sometime down the road, but being sedentary can be just as unhealthy.
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Your Next RaceDon't you get bored?
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Every single run might not be thrilling, but as runners we're adept at keeping things interesting. Whether it's a group run filled with laughs, a run in a beautiful location or a podcast-fueled long weekend run, it is far from boring.
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Your Next RaceHow long was today's marathon?
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If you actually ran a marathon, explaining the distance (26.2 miles) isn't annoying, but way too often people think that every race (even a 5k!) is called a marathon. If you're up for the challenge, delve into Greek history and explain how the soldier Pheidippides ran the first marathon from Marathon to Athens.
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Your Next RaceYou spent how much on running shoes?!
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Non-runners never seem to understand this, but good quality shoes aren't cheap! Sure, we might be spending $100 or more per pair, but considering how much we use them, they're worth every penny.
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Your Next RaceI guess you can eat anything you want, huh?
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Unfortunately, running a few miles a day doesn't mean we can gorge on junk. And even if we could, it wouldn't make us feel very good.
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Your Next RaceSo, are you going to run Boston?
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This is a tricky one. Nabbing that elusive BQ can be tough, even for the most seasoned of runners. It's possible that no matter how hard you train, it might never happen. It's also possible that marathons just aren't your thing—some of us would take a local trail race over a BQ any day.
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Your Next RaceDo you run outside when it's raining?
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Yup, you bet. And when it's snowing...and freezing...and hot...and dark...and windy. Just like the mailman, we get outside in all sorts of weather.
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Your Next RaceAre you trying to lose weight?
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Maybe. But maybe not. Sometimes we run to challenge ourselves or for the love of a good sweat. It's definitely not all about weight loss or calories burned!
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Your Next RaceCan I see your black toenail?
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If someone is curious enough to ask, we say go for it. Why not show them your chafing scars and watch tan while you're at it?
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Your Next RaceHave you ever thought about doing other exercise instead?
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There's nothing wrong with cross training, but if you're a runner at heart, there's nothing that can take its place!
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Your Next RaceAre you worried about having a heart attack?
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Every once in awhile, runners will pass away during or after a race. This type of news always makes big headlines, but these sad occurrences are not the norm. Get regular check-ups from your doctor and if all looks well, don't let worst-case scenarios scare you.
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Your Next RaceDo you need a ride?
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Whether well intentioned or taunting, this question might be our least favorite of all. Of course we'd love a ride—but we can't. Just give a wave and explain that you left the car behind on purpose.
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Your Next Race
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