are you a passionate runner
If humans can be divided into runners and non-runners, then runners can also be divided into regular runners and fanatic runners. Compared to others, fanatic runners have a unique understanding of running, and their running experiences could fill a 'crazy book.'
So how do you determine if you are a fanatic runner? Read on!
First Level of Fanatic Runners | Knowledge Enthusiast
The 'entry-level' behavior of a fanatic runner usually manifests as being a 'knowledge enthusiast,' showing a strong interest in all running knowledge, and even having a keen desire to study human anatomy, exercise physiology, and neuroscience. One fanatic runner I know is a man in his late 40s who taught himself English just to read foreign running books! This is the 'basic stance' of a fanatic runner!
Second Level of Fanatic Runners | Technique Enthusiast
A slightly more advanced fanatic runner focuses on the pursuit of technical metrics. Pace, pace, pace, PB, PB, PB... They undergo 'arduous and extraordinary' training to achieve their desired impressive data...
Third Level of Fanatic Runners | Technology Enthusiast
The evolved form of a 'technique enthusiast' fanatic runner is a 'technology enthusiast.' They are obsessed with the latest technological equipment from major brands related to running—heart rate monitoring watches, step frequency measuring underwear, insoles that analyze running posture, and countless running apps! No matter how expensive these cool gadgets are, fanatic runners are willing to buy them!
Fourth Level of Fanatic Runners | Competition Enthusiast
Once their pace, technique, and technological equipment reach a certain level, fanatic runners start participating in continuous competitions! Be it international marathons or local races, they accept them all! As long as they get a spot, they will run no matter what! Through continuous competitions, they become familiar with fellow runners and the entire marathon process and feeling. Some even challenge 'back-to-back' or 'hundred races in a year,' finding joy in it.
Fifth Level of Fanatic Runners | Medal Enthusiast
The more they run, the higher their demands become. After becoming familiar with major competitions, fanatic runners start collecting medals! Some collect marathon medals from provincial capitals across the country, some collect medals from the six major world marathons, and some collect medals from different years of the same event... If you are lucky enough to know a fanatic runner, you will surely find no less than 100 marathon medals in their home!
Sixth Level of Fanatic Runners | Organizer Enthusiast
Just as a skilled worker becomes the leader of their technical department, a good runner naturally wants to spread the meaningful activity of running. The sixth manifestation of a fanatic runner is 'organizing.' They organize competitions, running groups, and runner gatherings... Fanatic runners aim to 'unite all forces that can be united' and promote running! After all, this is the responsibility of an excellent runner.
Seventh Level of Fanatic Runners | International Enthusiast
When you reach a state where your physical strength, energy, and financial resources are all 'fully supportive,' running abroad with runners from around the world becomes your new hobby. Meeting friends, exchanging techniques, and showcasing the strength of Chinese runners... All these will immerse fanatic runners.
Eighth Level of Fanatic Runners | Cross-training Enthusiast
It is said that those who can run well are also good at other sports. High-level fanatic runners are no longer satisfied with just running, as they have already challenged everything. Trail running, swimming, sailing, triathlons... Any sport related to running techniques and recovery, fanatic runners are eager to try and excel at. Integrating sports requires insight and perseverance, and high-level fanatic runners can achieve this.
Ninth Level of Fanatic Runners | Enlightenment
The top-level fanatic runners have the keyword 'enlightenment.' They understand speed, endurance, persistence, running, life, honor, and even love, letting go, separation, life, and death... Their path becomes broader as they run, they no longer impose on others, nor do they need to ask for anything. All the scenery is on the road, and all gains and losses are in their hearts.
Identify yourself, are you a fanatic runner? If so, what level are you? Share with us in the comments!
(This article was originally published in Running Bible, WeChat ID: runningbible, and is reprinted with official authorization!)