Fall is approaching and that means the start of my all time favorite sport: cross country! Cross country is one of those weird enigmas that is very difficult to understand if you're not a part of it. Other people think it's not a sport or that it's the same thing as lacrosse, but us runners know it's one of the most intense sports there is. It's so intense that the longer you participate in it, the more it shapes your personality. You start forming strange habits that don't make sense to the average person, and sometimes not even to yourself. Those non-runners say that these habits make us weird and possibly insane. But it's these quirks that set us apart from the rest and show that we know how to go the distance. And let's be honest: we are a little insane.
1. You own way too many race tees
It's not even weird to you that there's a whole drawer in your dresser dedicated to them, because there's no way you are ever getting rid of even one.
2. "2 miles" and "easy run" are synonyms
And you weep golden tears when you hear either of these because that distance is nothing to you.
3. You eat way more than your size indicates
People question how a 5'8", 115 pound girl can eat an entire pizza, and you just ignore them because you're too busy enjoying that hard earned meal.
4. Any weather is running weather
Whether it's 100 degree heat or a snowy blizzard, nothing will stop you from getting in those hill repeats.
5. You spend all your money on racing stuff
Sure, we don't need fancy equipment, but a new pair of shoes each season and 5k entry fees add up fast.
6. You're way too close to your teammates
If people don't suspect you're all dating each other then you're doing it wrong.
7. You can't remember what it's like to not be in pain
You're so used to joint pain, muscle aches, and rolled ankles that it takes a lot to actually stop you.
8. Even the smallest improvement is a big deal
*Gets a one second PR* I'd like to thank the Academy.
9. Being tired is a part of your personality
If you can nap on the bus while the rest of your team sings Nickleback, you can nap anywhere.
10. You actually kind of hate running
It's a love/hate relationship, really.
11. It's a personal offense when people insult the sport
"Running isn't a real sport, huh? Well I'd like to see you run mile repeats in the fall heat."
12. Your food pyramid is actually just a loaf of bread
Pre-race meals are a balance of pasta, breadsticks, and any other carbs that can be found.
13. Water is a must
You don't understand how normal people can survive without having a water bottle at their side at all times.
13.1. You made it to the end of this list
Because let's be honest, no one cares about cross country except those in it.
