In a recent post from user ‘Old_and_Boring’ on a running subreddit, the discussion unfolds around superstitions that runners hold dear. It’s amusing to think that in a sport defined by time, distance, and fitness levels, many of us still harbor quirky beliefs. The post specifically highlights a charming superstition about a beloved coffee mug—a ‘Good Run, Champ’ mug that the author believes might jinx their running performance if used before a run. Users chimed in with camaraderie and their own idiosyncratic habits, making this a delightful examination of how personal rituals can impact our experiences on the track or trail.
Summary
- Runners often have superstitions that they believe enhance their performance or provide a psychological edge.
- Common habits range from specific articles of clothing to the timing of sharing racing goals or intentions.
- The interplay between superstition and personal experiences reveals a unique bond among runners, adding humor to their challenges.
- Many runners attribute their success to their quirks, leading to a sense of ritual that helps boost confidence.
The Mug’s Magic
Old_and_Boring’s blog post features a delightful focus on a simple coffee mug that highlights the deep connection runners can have with their personal items. The mug was acquired for a dollar at a local running store’s warehouse sale, yet it represents so much more than its monetary value. For the author, it’s a talisman of positive energy—something to be honored rather than utilized before embarking on a run. The notion that drinking from the mug before running might ‘curse’ the run is both endearing and relatable. It shows that the psychology of belief often carries more weight than the physical actions we take. You will find runners, all over, ascribing genuine power to their cherished items, from water bottles to lucky socks, in hopes of enhancing their runs.
Superstitions Galore
The comments section is a treasure trove of running superstitions that range from mild quirks to the outright humorous. User StevenSanders90210 shares an interesting perspective, stating, “Sometimes you get things in advance, and I won’t wear the shirt of a race before I run the race.” This highlights the belief that by avoiding certain clothing, runners might stave off bad luck or a poor performance. Similarly, Niflrog shared a nostalgic attachment to an old Adidas shirt, saying, “The pants and shoes have obviously since passed to a better life. But that old worn yellow Adidas Performance Sequencials tee remains my ‘lucky’ t-shirt.” Wearing a certain outfit that is linked to past successes provides comfort and confidence, reinforcing the idea that our psyche plays a significant role in our ability to succeed.
Rituals and Routines
Many commenters elaborated on pre-run rituals that they believe boost their performances. For instance, taclovitch humorously remarked that “eating before a planned run leads to side stitches every time,” but if they eat beforehand and then embark on an impromptu run, they have no issues at all. This peculiarity embodies the unpredictability of running and how our approaches can lead to different outcomes. Another clever quirk comes from user KennyLavish, who states, “every time I put my right shoe on first, I stub my toe mid-run. So I’d say my superstition would be always putting my left shoe on first.” This highlights not just the importance of procedure but the significance that routine holds for many runners. It further emphasizes the humor and humanity behind their superstitions.
The Power of Secrecy
A noteworthy theme that emerges from the discussion is the power of secrecy surrounding personal goals. Beccajo22 noted, “For me if I’m trying to hit a certain distance or time, I can’t tell anyone what I’m doing ahead of time.” This sentiment resonates with many who feel that sharing their goals could lead to jinxing their attempts, effectively turning a desired goal into a pressure-laden situation. Another user aligned with this idea, mentioning that every time he announced his intentions to achieve a new personal best (PB), he ultimately ‘blew up’ during the race. Such stories show that the state of mind can profoundly impact physical performance, and an element of mystique around running can often translate to success.
As the conversation on superstitions develops, it’s captivating to see how something so seemingly irrational can bolster one’s spirit. Each story shared by the users exemplifies that, beyond the physical prowess needed for running, there is a mental battle—a cherished belief in oneself and their rituals that grants them courage as they lace up for the next challenge. Whether it’s relying on a coffee mug post-run, lucky clothing items, or keeping goals close to the vest, these little quirks enrich the running community, creating a culture of support blended with the jest of shared experiences. Runners might put in the miles, but they definitely run with their hearts and beliefs, making every footfall a testament to the power of the mind in sport.