You Don't Look Like a Marathon Runner

After Saturday's four-mile run

In August I started my fourth season of marathon training, and next March when I run the Los Angeles Marathon, I'll complete my fifth full marathon. I love to run, I love talking about running, and I love encouraging other people to run.

But you know what I don't love? Conversations with people who aren't runners or have never completed a 26.2-mile marathon, but want to put their two cents about why I can't possibly be a marathon runner into the ether.

Here's some words of advice: It is never appropriate to say, "You don't look like a marathon runner," to anyone.

Really, if you just met me at a get-together and I mention that I run marathons, that is not your cue to look my body up and down and essentially tell me you don't believe me.

When I replied, "Is that your way of saying that you think I'm fatter than what you believe a marathon runner should be?", you looked uncomfortable. Oh well.

Let's be clear: There is no "look" for a marathon runner. Heck, with the advent of barefoot running, there are even marathoners who train and race with no shoes! Indeed, one of the wonderful things about marathons is seeing people of all ages, colors and sizes--from the elite Kenyans to someone like me--out there on the course, completing the journey to the finish line.

I run to relax, to get some exercise, to meet nice people, and to be a role model for my sons. I run because I like to accomplish big goals and I believe in perseverance and endurance instead of sprinting. And I have a wall of medals to show for it.

Next time, check your biases before you open your mouth.