Are you considered a "Non-Competitive Runner?"

Good morning! Grab a cup of coffee and pull up a stool. A week or so back I chatted about our NFLR focus on helping to empower all levels of runners, particularly non-competitive runners. The idea of being a “non-competitive” runner often implies that a runner is limited to the back of the pack, with no aspirations to be faster. This implication could not be further from the reality of the “No Finish Line Running” core mission. The notion that non-competitive running is a limiting level of running is a total misconception. In fact, most runners from beginner all the way through most Boston Qualifiers (BQ) are considered “non-competitive.” Though, that same group are all similar in that they strive to improve at various levels. There are obvious varying levels of improvement that vary between beginners and experienced runners but, each provides benefits from improved conditioning through sense of accomplishment. These benefits serve to encourage our running at whatever level we are at and are essential to motivating us to put on our running shoes run after run. When we promote a training group as “non-competitive” runners it often deters more advanced runners who feel they need to be part of a group that focuses on “competitive” runners. While in some cases it makes sense to seek out a competitive training opportunity, it is rare that most runners fit into that category. NFLR preaches “intelligent training” and no matter what a runners training goal is, there are similar strategies that vary only in pace, time running (distance) and workout purpose. Whether it is the beginner trying to intelligently train to run a 5K or a runner trying to BQ, our certified running coaches focus on training tools that develop them appropriately. Every runner is different and requires specific and unique training. Group training is beneficial for all level of runners but only if within the group there are allowances for various ranges of runners and controls that prevent over achieving. Individual training requires similar controls, whether goals are different or similar. “Non-competitive” runners tend to be the least disciplined and most often that results in plateauing, burnout or injury. So what makes a runner a “competitive” runner? Truly very few can solely focus on running but if you can then you have moved into the category or competitive running. When a runner only works as a means to competing and every decision is based on a result of a race. You are now at a level that very few are a part of. Religious training, strength and conditioning, nutritional discipline and regimented life styles are all a part of being a truly competitive runner. The few that excel into elite categories of running often are given opportunities to train with elite teams. Others are self-driven and thrive through gifted ability combined with a determination to excel. In both cases the results of a race are all that matters. Being a competitive runner is special and admired by many of us. The hard work, discipline and sacrifice required are often gone unnoticed, while the results tend to be our only focus. “Non-competitive” runners make up the vast majority of those that lace up running shoes. While there is a range of levels between non-competitive runners we can all find enjoyment and empowerment at whatever level we are at. We can also seek to move to a higher level and challenge ourselves however, hopefully we do not sacrifice the enjoyment that keeps running a lifetime activity. We work with so many runners through groups and individual training and often we see runners that are consumed beyond the enjoyment. Finishing well in an age group, running crazy miles, qualifying for Boston and on and on, are all great but not if the cost outweighs the gain. We struggle with marketing to “non-competitive” runners, not because we are limiting our groups or individual training to non-competitive runners but, because we want to help most all runners. Hope you have a great week and go enjoy a run! God Bless! Mike