Running is a simple sport, yet at times it can feel like we are speaking our own language when we try to share with non-runners. For an activity as simple as moving your own two feet, it sure brings quite a few unique experiences. These things runners love may sound strange and unfamiliar to others, but to us they are what keep us going through the tough moments.

As the seasons begin to change and racing season nears, runners around the world are growing more excited and ambitious each day. During each long run I find myself questioning why in the world I want to do this, but as I finish each run I remember exactly why I started.

Running is a wonderfully unique sport. We learn and grow on the run in ways that bond us with complete strangers. It doesn’t take long to develop a love for some of the unique things that bond us. Running humor never fails to inspire, encourage and give us a good laugh.

These 26.2 weird things runners love are a reminder of why we keep going when times get tough!

26.2 Weird Things Runners Love

1. CARB LOADING

Bread, pasta, potatoes, ice cream … we love it ALL! One of the best parts about running is getting to fuel up for those long runs with so many great foods. There’s nothing better than having a reason to eat delicious food.

2. New running shoes

The excitement that comes with new running shoes is hard to beat. The fresh smell of opening the box followed by the clean, crisp feeling of lacing up for the first time in new shoes just can’t be beat.

3. The first cool run after a hot summer running season

When the temperature finally cools down and the humidity dips, it feels like heave. The transition from summer to fall running season is such a breath of fresh air after trudging through those miserable, sweaty runs of the summer.

4. Finding the perfect running fuel

That feeling when you try something new on the run and it just clicks. Stumbling upon the perfect running fuel makes long runs so much more enjoyable. And once we find that perfect fuel, we make sure stock up for the future.

6. The runner wave!

Arguably my favorite part about running is when I see other runners out there and they wave at me. Waving at fellow runners makes us feel like we’re part of some sort of club, all out there rooting each other on even though we are strangers. I love the camaraderie of this sport!

Related: 15 Amazing Reasons to Run

7. Bonding with strangers on race day

After waving at so many strangers, we begin to feel like we know one another. Standing in the starting corrals of a race makes you feel like you’re running with a close group of friends – even if you’re out there solo. Runners are some of the friendliest people, and there’s nothing quite like the bond that forms with the ones next to you on race day.

8. Aid stations with more than just water or Gatorade

One of my favorite races passed out marshmallows at their aid stations – YUM. Discovering that there are some unexpected goodies at an aid station – whether it’s bananas, beer, cold towels, pretzels, m&ms or anything else – brings such joy in the midst of a long, challenging race.

9. Automatic PRs for weird race distances

Running a race distance that is different from most – like an 8k, 12k, etc. – usually gives us an automatic PR. Starting a race knowing that no matter what happens, you’re going to PR is a very satisfying feeling.

10. Running in the first snow

It feels so magical to be running in the snow for the first time each year. Seeing the snowflakes and white dusting on the ground makes us feel like we’re in a snow globe. Experiencing the seasons firsthand has to be one of the greatest parts of our sport (at least for the first few runs, before the snow gets old and we are sick of the inconvenience).

11. Bright running clothes

Nothing brightens up the day like colorful running clothes. All the colorful gear keeps things from getting dreary in the winter, and really brighten things up come spring and summer. There is nothing too bright or vibrant to wear on the run! The brighter the better.

12. Talking about running, paces, races, places

It’s so fun to meet up with other runners and discuss your most recent races, long runs, PRs, goals, travels and so much more! Sharing with someone else who appreciates all the details brings a great deal of excitement and satisfaction. Plus we usually can’t help ourselves and over-share with non-runner family and friends too!

13. ENDORPHINS

No more needs to be said! Life’s natural high can be found in excess on the run.

14. Race medals

Finishing a race and hitting a goal are satisfying in and of themselves, but why not add some bling to it? Getting to show off those fancy medals is a well-deserved treat for runners. There is no doubt that a medal can be a motivating factor at a race and definitely helps power through some of those tough moments on the run!

15. Posting your miles on social media

How do we know it really happened if you never talk about it? While some sharing can be done for the wrong reason, most runners find themselves sharing accomplishments out of excitement, and supporting others along the way. The running community has a great online presence, and never fails to support one another and cheer fellow runners on along the way.

15. A great running selfie!

Trying to take a selfie on the run can be a challenging feat. Capturing a non-blurry selfie where sweat isn’t dripping down your face and it doesn’t look like you’re about to collapse is a rare experience. Getting a great running selfie is definitely something to celebrate!

16. Going to bed ridiculously early

Hello 9pm bed time! Hitting the hay early on Friday nights before a Saturday morning long run probably sounds depressing to our non-runner friends, but it is oh so satisfying for us. Nothing is better than an early bed time and waking up refreshed and well rested for that long run.

17. Running fanny packs

Fashion sense takes a back burner on the run, and I love it. While most people normally wouldn’t be caught dead with a fanny pack, they are full of all sorts of convenience on the run. Store your phone, snacks, money, ID and so much more without having to carry a thing. Plus they’re cute, I swear;)

18. Water water water

Forcing yourself to stay hydrated at all times never fails to eventually leave us with a love for water. It’s easy to pass up those sugary drinks when we know we’re preparing for a long run. Coming home sweaty and exhausted leaves us craving ice cold water to rehydrate.

19. Seeing the sun rise or sunset.

Running provides us with the opportunity to experience the outdoors in so many ways. The two most beautiful parts of the day are no doubt the moments the sun rises and sets. These moments are ones that most others miss, but for those early morning and late night runners – we love to see beautiful colors each day.

20. Post long run laziness.

Completing a long run is a satisfying feat, but one of the best parts is recovering the rest of the day. Not feeling guilty about binge watching TV, reading your book, or just relaxing on the couch is a wonderful feeling. Getting to enjoy well-deserved time off your feet is a great part of running!

21. Wearing running clothes in public

Comfort trumps fashion for most runners. Wearing running clothes in public feels like something that we’ve earned and deserve from all of our hard work. Staying comfortable while running errands, going for road trips, and traveling is so easy with our endless supply of running clothes!

22. Costume or themed races

Nothing gets you in the spirit for a holiday or season like a race with thousands dressed for it! Themed races take an exciting experience and bring it to a whole new level. Dressing up, having fun filled aid stations, or celebrating in a themed post race party makes us even more motivated to sign up.

23. Doing your business in the woods

Sometimes no matter how well you prepare, you just have to go. Runners never seem ashamed of these moments, sharing them with their running partners with pride. If you’ve ever found yourself in the middle of a run with the urge to go, you know how satisfying it is when you finally find that perfect spot, closed off from the trail and blocked by tons of trees.

24. Garmin stats

Runners are obsessive – especially when it comes to their statistics. Checking your pace, distance, heart rate, elevation, cadence and so much more are a habit for most runners after a run. Sharing these Garmin stats with others is like speaking a different language that only fellow runners understand.

25. Well deserved PRs.

Nothing is more satisfying than putting in the work and seeing results. Setting a goal to PR can feel nearly impossible, but after training for months, the best feeling is when all that hard work comes to fruition.

26. Post race beverages

Or my favorite – post race ice cream! Indulging feels even more satisfying knowing that you’ve truly earned it. One of my favorite things to think about during those tough moments on a run is what I am going to refuel with after the run. Whether it’s a cold beer, ice cream cone, pizza, burger or anything else – those post race treats are the best!

26.2: Finishing those goals that sounded impossible to begin with.

Running has the ability to show us what we are capable of accomplishing, even when we don’t believe it to begin with. We challenge ourselves to meet some crazy goals, accomplish them, and then continue on our quest for improvement.

I am so grateful for all of my fellow runners out there, sharing and spreading the joy of our sport. Happy running, friends!