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Running

My Partner Isn’t a Runner, Now What?

Reaching compromise

Brad

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Photo by Capstone Events on Unsplash

I’ve met countless couples that run together, and it seems like an ideal arrangement. But what if you don't have that advantage? My wife couldn’t be less interested in running, and most of my family and friends share a similar sentiment. Most people I know think “cardio is silly” and “running is just putting one foot in front of the other.”

It’s not like my spouse doesn’t try. I get running gear for Christmas and get some encouragement to pursue my goals. My spouse even surprised me at an ultra-marathon waving a motivational sign, despite feeling out of place because she was the only one there. While I am grateful, I wish I could have told her that marathons are a little more appropriate for that kind of cheering.

If your partner is not a runner, it’s not necessarily the end of the world. There are many considerations and solutions to make it all fit.

Time

Regardless of your level of training, running is a pretty time-intensive sport. If I am training for a marathon, it's easy for that to take up to eight hours each week, and doesn't include travel, recovery, showers, expos, research, etc. Whether you’re in a long-term relationship like me or just started dating someone, it's important to communicate the…

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