running or jogging "that is the question"

[trickytiger]

Oh, but there are so many more lovely categories! I don't know about you, but I've done variations on all of the following (sometimes in the same race or outing): sprinting, shuffling, trundling, leaping, trotting, plodding, and my absolute favorite, waddling (after my first and only ultra).

Really, it's all about putting one foot in front of the other. I agree with the others: if you are more than casual about it, you're a runner.

[Hammer]

People discuss this on dedicated running forums too. I like, "The difference between running and jogging is an entry form." Though I would never suggest that exclusively.

I've got a runner friend that never enters events. She certainly runs much faster and longer than me. I only run an event maybe once a year or so. Depends on if it's one that I want a tshirt for or not. Or how my running has gone that year. I tend to regress occasionally. I can't imagine the investment of running a race like every weekend, or whatever.

[Urlea]

My husband and I have a theory that the real runners are those who continue running after the race has come and gone. Those who run, just because they love to. Not to stay in shape or beat someone. Those who even run in the wind, rain, sleet and snow. Because they can.

I certainly agree with the other ladies here, it is about the desire and state of mind.

Races are great, it's nice to have a memento that you are indeed a runner. Being part of the running community is also a big boost to keep you going. But, it's not what makes me a runner.

Keep putting one foot in front of the other! I know I will be.

[crazybikinchic]

I was reading my Runner's World magazine this afternoon on my train ride home. There was a question on runners being called joggers. The answer to the question echoed what all the ladies have said, running is a state of mind. You run for the passion of it. The last line said something to the effect of whether you run a 4 minute mile or a 12 minute mile, you are a runner.

[kiwi girl]

there is a famous quote from running writer Dr George Sheehan (sp?) that 'the difference between a jogger and a runner is an entry blank' - I'm not sure I entirely buy that - although as a pretty slow runner who has entered a race or two it kind of appeals