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I think a major reason for delaying or postponing the start of a running program for many over 50 runners is the fear of embarrassment. What will others think or say when they see me running? How will my friends react to my ?I started running? announcement? Well, as is true with many assumptions, these are not nearly as serious as we fear. Think for a moment about the last time you passed an out of shape, plodding runner on the road. What was your first impression? It may have been surprise, admiration or perhaps just a neutral register in your mind. It’s unlikely that it was negative. Suppose it was someone you recognized; someone who was a total surprise for you to see running. Now what would be your reaction? I doubt that it would be disdain or dismissive. In fact the next meeting with that person might start with your encouraging acknowledgment that you had see them running.

Runners as a group are gracious to other runners. Almost every time I’ve encountered another runner on one of my runs, we’ve exchanged greetings. Even those who are lost in their music and endorphin haze, (yea, a lot of times that’s me) make the effort to say hello. In races, where sometimes the competitive juices overflow, I’ve never seen anything but encouragement and support from other runners.

If we divide the world into runners and nonrunners, what can you expect from each? The runners will be supportive. The nonrunners will either be impressed and admiring, neutral or most likely apathetic. Your friends are your friends because they like you. They really don’t care whether you run or sit. Your running is all about you. Surprise your friends by not only starting but continuing to run. Cast off those inhibitions and lace up.