we’re all runners



This blog post was written by Shawna and posted on May 4, 2010 at 6:39 am


The lululemon run club comes in all shapes and sizes.

Before I ever started running I viewed the activity as an elite sport where the best of the best competed; long lean legs, killer physique and presence that could be on the cover of Runner’s World. Even though I didn’t fit any of the above criteria, I thought I was in good enough shape to run. During my first 10k I took my spot, looked around me and completely judged everyone I saw; sizing up the competition and confidently telling myself who would be behind me.

Go! We were off. Running down the streets, pushing my body and seeing my 'competition' twice my size and age zoom past me, I was shocked. These people didn’t have the physique, I thought. They didn’t have the long lean legs. They didn’t have the presence. Then it clicked, and I chucked everything I had thought out the door. Runners come in ALL shapes, sizes, endurance and all have the same end goal – the finish line.

On that first 10k, four years ago, I saw my favourite shirt that still makes me laugh today. This 70 year old man inched ahead of me, and the back of his shirt read: “I may be slow, but you’re behind me.” In the moment it humbled me, filled me with emotion and reminded me -- we are all runners.

See you on the pavement as you pass me!

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15 Comments »


I love this. I felt the same when I first started running. Slow and Steady wins the race I always say. P.S. Shawna that Run Swiftly LS you are wearing looks ravishing on you!

Comment by Whitney — May 4, 2010 @ 9:09 am


I am just learning to run too, and what you wrote about is so true! Running is a lot more inclusive than I had judged it to be. Great post. :)

Comment by Alana — May 4, 2010 @ 9:37 am


This is so bang on Shawna!

Comment by Alexis — May 4, 2010 @ 2:05 pm


My saying has always been, “strong like bull, slow like molasses” But I still keep it up, running in a group is so much fun!

Comment by Amber — May 4, 2010 @ 2:19 pm


I feel the same way! I have short stubby legs that carry me on my 2 miles runs!

Comment by Sana — May 4, 2010 @ 2:24 pm


This is such a true post, it makes me want to get up and run!

Comment by Gillian — May 5, 2010 @ 7:55 am


Love this! For my first race (5 miles), I started and finished right next to this man who I later found out was 76. I was so impressed by him & humbled. I remember thinking “I hope to run like him when I’m 76″

Comment by Erica Sara — May 5, 2010 @ 7:58 am


I LOVE running. I’m on my 16th year! I use to have this image about what runners should look like… SO over that notion. Just word of advice for anyone starting… running shouldn’t hurt ie knee pain, hip pain not muscle fatigue! It would have saved me a lot of agony if someone had told me sooner.

Comment by Janet — May 5, 2010 @ 8:09 am


Hahaha, I love the “strong like bull, slow like molasses” quote! Running is for everyone who gets even the slightest enjoyment from their endorphins pumping! That’s something that any person can learn to love!

Comment by thr — May 5, 2010 @ 8:39 am


Wow!! Love this! Shawna, I agree the run swiftly does look fantastic on you!!!

Comment by Meagan — May 5, 2010 @ 8:42 am


Wow! This is spot on. I got a bit choked up as I remembered my first 5K. I can’t wait to go running tonight :)

Comment by Tannaz — May 5, 2010 @ 11:23 am


Loved this! and I want that 70 year old man’s shirt :)

Comment by Krisit — May 5, 2010 @ 11:53 am


That is the coolest thing ever about that shirt! Good for him and Good for you! I hope to do my first 5 or 10 K next year! I still feel odd for I have big thighs but I’m just running through it! Just wore running shorts for the first time outside and a tank too! Trying new stuff and expanding my comfort zone! Oh Yeah!

Comment by Annie — May 5, 2010 @ 2:53 pm


Really enjoyed your blog topic. As an avid runner and running coach, I am always excited to welcome and encourage all who wish to run, to join the running community. It’s not just about how far you can/or choose to run, it’s just that you have made the decision to just do it!

Comment by Orlando — May 6, 2010 @ 6:03 am


Great post! Thanks for sharing it Shawna

@Orlando -LOVE your comment. For someone who feels the ‘running realm’ a far away place, your genuine passion to welcome anyone who wishes to run is truly an inspiring thing. It makes that seemingly scary step to join a run group all the easier. Thank you.

Comment by Jenna — May 6, 2010 @ 3:35 pm


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