When you are out running do you wave at another runner? That question crossed my mind recently. I was out for my regular early morning run and about half way through as I rounded a corner I noticed another runner heading toward me. He was about my age and seemed to be running at about my pace. I was on the right side of the sidewalk and he was on the left so there was no issue of collision. As we got closer, I raised my hand in acknowledgement expecting a response. He just ran by. No acknowledgement...nothing. I could have been a ghost. And that got me thinking: What's the appropriate way to acknowledge a fellow runner? Wave or don't wave?
This may have been an isolated incident. The vast majority of runners I encounter give some form of acknowledgement: a wave, nod of the head or even a grunted 'Morning'. It feels good to give the acknowledgement and even better to get it. Kindred soles and all that. When I didn't get a response, I felt snubbed. Had I done something to offend him?
Maybe he was totally focused on some aspect of intense training. I know when I'm running hill repeats I am absorbed by form and breathing. While gasping for air toward the top of a hill I don't have the energy to wave.
It could have been that he was zoned out listening to his music. He had headphones on so could have been lost in a favourite running tune.
Maybe I pissed him off with my speed and agility....nah, couldn't have been that.
This was probably that one in a million runner who prefers to stay totally in their zone while running. I understand that and respect him if that's the case. It won't change my habit of waving to other runners though. It makes me feel good.
Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy
