Runner vs. I run

For a long time I couldn't call myself a runner.  I would say, "I run," but not "I'm a runner."  I don't know why really, but I guess I imagined a runner was way more hardcore than I was.  A runner had completed marathonS.  A runner was a professional.  A runner didn't jiggle so much.  You know, stuff like that.  I finally decided to change the way I thought and I started to call myself a runner, jiggle and all. 

So what's the difference?  Is there a difference?  How can you tell if you are a "runner" or if you fall into the category of "I run."  Here are a few things I have observed:


Shoes:

I run

Runner

Vacations:

I run

Runner

First thing you think of when you hear Bart Yasso:

Runner

I run

First thing you think of when you hear "lube"

Runner

I run

The place your GPS goes:

I run

Runner

First thing you think of when you hear "Negative Splits:"

Runner

I run

 Thing you do immediately after you say fartlek:

I run

Runner

That was for you Tricia ;)

Designer Clothing:

I run

Runner

Easy Day:

I run

Runner

Smoothie:

Runner

I run

Thing you describe as cute:

I run

Runner

First thing you think of when you hear "The Dreadmill:"

Runner

I run

Jewelry:

I run

Runner

How many miles in a marathon?

Runner

I run

I'm of course just joking, but I do think there is a difference between someone who runs and someone who is a runner.  I don't think it has anything to do with how fast or far you run, but rather your attitude about running.  If you love it, if it energizes you, if it is something you look forward to doing, I think you are a runner.  If it is something you have to make yourself do, put off doing, make excuses not to do, or dread, you just run.  I am proud to say that even though I don't drink spinach smoothies, that I am a runner! 

Are you a runner or do you just run?


Have any other differences you'd like to add to the list?  I'd love to hear yours!!!!