Not everyone runs for the same reason.
Some people run because they enjoy it; some people run because they need to de-stress; some people run just to get away from their annoying housemate and the piles of unwashed dishes.
Whatever your reason for running, it's important to remember that it's no less valid than anyone else's. Your 5k weekend run to shake off the work-week's cobwebs? Just as important as the seven marathons that girl in the office keeps banging on about.
But which running persona are you? Read on to find out...
The Purposeful Runner
This runner hasn't got time for some two-hour extended deep-stretch yoga class, no sirree. She's got places to go and people to see and that means fitting her running in and around her busy schedule, making it work for her.
Don't be surprised to catch this runner showing up to the cinema in gym kit, ready to run home afterwards, or to find a pile of dirty leggings under her desk bigger than Mount Everest. Heck, she's even been known to turn a boring visit to the post office into a 10k round-trip run.
Takeaway tip: Having a range of versatile sports gear is key – you might be running places but rest assured, your style is never compromised.
Illustrated by Anna Sudit.
The Reluctant Runner
Classes and gym sessions are this runner's fave method of keeping fit but, when it's not possible, she'll take herself out for a run knowing that, despite that naughty inner voice urging her to jack it all in for a Netflix binge, she'll feel flipping fantastic afterwards. Especially once the endorphins kick in.
And more often than not – wouldn't you know it – that pre-planned 5k run often ends up being more like seven.
Takeaway tip: Treat yourself to some new workout clothes from the adidas UltraBOOST X collection to get you motivated – chances are you won't be able to resist going for that run to show them off.
Illustrated by Anna Sudit.
The De-Stress Runner
After a tough day at work dealing with Kevin from accounts and his non-stop stream of nonsensical emails, this runner wants – nay, needs – to head out on the streets and stomp the pavements hard to wipe away the stress of the day. After all, she knows the importance of a healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally.
How far she runs doesn't really matter – what does matter, though, is that, come the end of her run, she's feeling zen and ready to focus on some leisure time at home. Take that, Kevin.
Takeaway tip: Download a mindfulness podcast to listen to as you run, for the full-on zen experience.
Illustrated by Anna Sudit.
The Competitive Runner
This girl's got competitive races pencilled in her diary until mid-2018, from the half marathon she's aiming for later this year, to the 10k she's doing next month, to the 5k run she does every weekend. Running to destroy her personal best is what keeps her going, and that sense of achievement once she crosses the finish line? Priceless.
Takeaway tip: Invest in a quality pair of running shoes like the adidas UltraBOOST X which are designed to respond to every ground strike with maximum power, helping you achieve those big running goals.
Illustrated by Anna Sudit.
The Social Runner
This girl used to head to a bar and drink cocktails to catch up with her friends but now, while cocktails are still a regular event (c'mon), she also takes the opportunity to socialise with her pals at their weekend run club.
Turns out quality time feels a whole lot more quality when it happens in the fresh air with endorphins flowing – who knew?
Takeaway tip: Run clubs are a great way to combine exercise and socialising. If you're based in London, be sure to check out the upcoming adidas Women's Run clubs – the Refinery29 x adidas Runners event takes place on the last Wednesday of every month until October.
Illustrated by Anna Sudit.Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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