14 Questions Runners are Tired of Hearing

Megan
Written by
Megan Harrington |
There's nothing runners love more than talking about their training (c'mon you know it's true), but some questions we get from non-runners are just plain annoying. If you're a seasoned runner, you're bound to have heard a few—or all—of these questions.
So, are you fast?
1 of 15
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."
7 Ways You Can Run Faster in Your Next Race
Find:
Your Next Race
Did you win the race?
1 of 15
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!
Best Non-PR Race Day Goals
Find:
Your Next Race
Aren't you going to ruin your knees?
1 of 15
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.
How to Treat and Prevent Runner's Knee
Find:
Your Next Race
Don't you get bored?
1 of 15
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.
Best Podcasts for Runners
Find:
Your Next Race
How long was today's marathon?
1 of 15
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.
Are You Ready to Run a Marathon?
Find:
Your Next Race
You spent how much on running shoes?!
1 of 15
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.
Find:
Your Next Race
I guess you can eat anything you want, huh?
1 of 15
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.
Find:
Your Next Race
So, are you going to run Boston?
1 of 15
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.
7 Tips to Qualify for the Boston Marathon
Find:
Your Next Race
Do you run outside when it's raining?
1 of 15
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.
Find:
Your Next Race
Are you trying to lose weight?
1 of 15
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!
Why Most Runners Don't Lose Weight
Find:
Your Next Race
Can I see your black toenail?
1 of 15
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?
Find:
Your Next Race
Have you ever thought about doing other exercise instead?
1 of 15
There's nothing wrong with cross training, but if you're a runner at heart, there's nothing that can take its place!
Find:
Your Next Race
Are you worried about having a heart attack?
1 of 15
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.
Find:
Your Next Race
Do you need a ride?
1 of 15
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.
Find:
Your Next Race
1 of 15
Find:
Your Next Race

About the Author

Megan

More by Megan Megan Harrington | Freelance Writer
Megan is a runner and writer living in Upstate New York. Megan ran cross-country and track throughout high school and college and now enjoys longer races like the marathon. When she's not reviewing the latest fitness gear or writing copy for brands, Megan enjoys being active with her husband and two small children. For more on what Megan is up to, you can follow her on Instagram.