I cast a quick look down the starting line, noting my fellow runners' choice of footwear, “Vaporfly... Vaporfly... Vaporfly...” While they sport the latest/greatest in running technology, I lace up my trusty pair of last year's Hoka Mach, clad in an old cotton shirt from goodwill, and a pair of shorts I snagged on sale.
Running is supposed to be straightforward and accessible. You lace up your shoes and run… but I’ve noticed there's an underlying current of conformity. The appeal of conformity in running is complex. Whether it's keeping up with the newest trends in gear or training methods, we as runners frequently find ourselves immersed in a culture of shared norms and anticipated behaviors. I’ve seen its effects hinder personal development and detract from running's essence as a unique journey for each of us as a runner.
One of the most visible manifestations of conformity in running is the lack of representation and acknowledgment of diversity within the sport. Flip through the pages of running magazines or scroll through social media, and you'll often find a homogeneous portrayal of runners – predominantly white and male…. “Vaporfly-bros”
The underrepresentation of diverse voices and faces in running media and marketing materials sends a disheartening message to aspiring runners from underrepresented communities. When individuals don't see themselves reflected in the imagery and stories presented by the running community, it can create barriers to entry and a sense of alienation. This lack of visibility not only stifles the potential for greater inclusivity within the sport but also overlooks the rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives that diverse runners bring to the table. Embracing and amplifying the stories of runners from all backgrounds is essential not only for fostering a more inclusive and equitable running culture but also for inspiring a new generation of athletes.
The influence of social media personalities/influencers within the running community has sparked a mixed bag of effects, both beneficial and detrimental to our sport and individual journeys as runners. These influencers often endorse training/recovery products, training methods, and dietary plans, but not all these recommendations are backed by scientific evidence or suitable for every individual. Consequently, there's a risk that we, as runners, may adopt practices that are ineffective or potentially harmful to our well-being and growth.
The pervasive nature of social media amplifies this pressure to conform. We're constantly bombarded with meticulously curated images of seemingly flawless athletes dripped out in high-end activewear, perpetually reveling in their Strava PRs and crowns. This relentless stream of comparison fosters feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, reinforcing the idea that we must conform to a predetermined standard to be considered legitimate runners.
Conformity is boring… it stifles creativity and innovation. When we conform, we suppress our unique ideas and perspectives in favor of blending in with the masses. This homogenization of thought leads to a lack of diversity in ideas, ultimately hindering progress and growth. Beyond the dullness it can be outright dangerous. Pushing ourselves to meet arbitrary standards set by others leads to overtraining, burnout, and injury. Many runners fall into the trap of comparing themselves to others, pushing beyond their limits to keep up with perceived expectations.
It can often breed a culture of elitism and exclusion within the running community. Those who don't conform to the norms may feel alienated or inadequate, leading to a sense of disillusionment and disconnection from the sport we love.
I once struggled with feelings of inadequacy and how I defined success as a runner. As a black man, I’m already going against the grain… I'm aware of the stereotypes and misconceptions that accompany my presence on the roads or trails. Whether it's the assumption that I'm naturally gifted at sprinting or the subtle surprise when I excel and enjoy ultra-distanced races, these stereotypes and microaggressions not only undermine my achievements but also contribute to a broader narrative of exclusion and marginalization.
One of my favorite characters I learned about in school was a philosopher by the name of Diogenes. He lived around the same time as Plato and practiced a life of “radical simplicity,” challenging societal norms and conventions at every turn. He pissed off a lot of people and lived in a barrel/trashcan on the outskirts of town, I found a ton of inspiration and value in his unorthodox approach to life and his relentless pursuit of truth and freedom.
Diogenes despised the pretentiousness and materialism that consumed the city. He rejected the luxuries of wealth and power. People often mocked him, calling him a beggar or a madman, but Diogenes paid no attention to their insults. He was content with his modest existence, finding joy in his freedom from the trappings of society. His unapologetic lifestyle and provocative behavior earned him both admirers and critics, but his message was of great value - to live a life of virtue and authenticity, stripped of societal pretenses.
Embracing this simplicity doesn't mean sacrificing depth or ambition; rather, it means stripping away the unnecessary to reveal the essence of our journey. It's about finding joy in the purity of movement and the simplicity of being. As we lace up our shoes and hit the pavement, we tap into an elemental truth: that the most profound experiences often arise from the simplest acts. For us to truly excel, we must cultivate this simplicity and authenticity.
Running authentically means being true to ourselves, both on and off the roads. It means letting go of the need for external validation and finding fulfillment from within. It means living our lives with purpose and passion, unapologetically embracing who we are and what we stand for. The world needs more authentic runners – and more authentic people – now more than ever.
“If you run, you’re a runner.”