Running Partners - What Really Forms the Bonds?
Throughout my running life, I’ve had the good fortune to run (and walk) with so many different people. There have been days when I was the one who had to do all the talking so that the others could focus on breathing. Other times, I was the one who needed to concentrate on breathing.
Over the past 13 years, running has brought me so many great friends - I can’t even begin to name them all. Some of us have moved to different places, but the friendships that we forged have withstood the distance. One thing is certain: We meet as strangers, but we become friends as we run and walk together.
I treasure my running partners - there is a mutual sharing of who we really are as we’re out there on the road together. No cell phones. No emails to check. No distractions. No pretenses. No judgment. Just time spent with a friend on the road. What could be better?
So, what is it that bonds people together as they run or walk long miles? Is it common interests? Common goals? Common challenges? Common pain?
If you have made good friends through your running or walking, I’m sure you understand this concept. I’d love to hear your thoughts and/or stories.
October 30th, 2008 at 6:46 am
Ironically, I just finished a post in which I largely spoke of this phenomenon. I reference the topic somewhat tangentially, but the point is there in many respects. It certainly can be said that few sports are as collegial as distance running. It’s that time we have, which we all know goes faster with a bit of good conversation from time-to-time. Of course, in addition, if we’re not able to talk, we are running in an anaerobic state, which is a no-no for optimal distance.
What you said up here is so lovely and true. The friendships and bonds we form whilst running are so qualitative, it’s hard to find the right words to capture the dimensions of beauty for it.