🏃15 Most Annoying Things People Say to Runners

Plus: 10 Foods and Drinks to Avoid Before a Run

May 30, 2025

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Hi runners!

If you’ve ever mentioned running at a party, family dinner, or basically anywhere in public, you’ve probably heard at least one of these gems:
“Isn’t running bad for your knees?”
“How far is your marathon?”
“Do you run every day?”

We get it—people mean well. But after the tenth time, it starts to wear thin. Our latest article rounds up 15 of the most cringe-worthy, eye-roll-inducing things people say to runners. Read the full list—and feel free to forward it to That One Person in your life.

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MUST READ

15 Most Annoying Things People Say to Runners

Running is supposed to be a solo sport—but somehow, everyone else has opinions about it. The moment someone hears you’re a runner, they light up like they’ve just discovered a new species. “Oh, you run?!” they ask, as if you’ve casually mentioned that you juggle flaming swords on weekends.

And then the unsolicited comments start. Some are clueless, some are vaguely insulting, and some are just bizarre.

So, in honor of all the runners out there politely smiling through it, here are 15 of the most annoying things people say—and what we really wish we could say back.

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