Are You a “Real” Runner? Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Running

Today’s newsletter is written by Letty, the host of the Marathon Running Podcast and YouTube Channel:

Have you ever found yourself thinking, I’m not fast enough to call myself a runner or I don’t belong at this race? If so, you’re not alone. Many runners—whether they’re new to the sport or seasoned marathoners—experience imposter syndrome, that nagging feeling that they don’t truly belong. But here’s the truth: If you run, you’re a runner.

What is Imposter Syndrome in Running?

Imposter syndrome is the persistent belief that you’re not as capable as others think you are. In running, this can show up as self-doubt, hesitation to enter races, or a reluctance to call yourself a runner. It’s especially common among recreational runners who feel they need to hit certain times, distances, or achievements (like a Boston Marathon qualification) to be “legit.”

Common Signs of Imposter Syndrome in Runners

• Feeling like you don’t belong at a race or group run.

• Downplaying your achievements (e.g., “Oh, it was just a half marathon, not a full”).

• Comparing yourself to faster runners and feeling inadequate.

• Avoiding the title “runner” because you think you haven’t earned it.

• Worrying that others will judge you for your pace or training routine.

Does this happen more to beginners or experienced runners?

Surprisingly, imposter syndrome isn’t just a beginner’s struggle. While new runners may doubt their abilities, experienced athletes also face it—especially when setting big goals, competing at higher levels, or coming back from an injury. Even elite runners sometimes feel like they don’t belong at the top!

How Imposter Syndrome Affects Performance

Self-doubt isn’t just an emotional challenge—it can affect your training, racing, and overall confidence. When runners don’t believe in their abilities, they may:

• Hold back from pushing themselves in workouts.

• Skip races because they don’t feel “ready.”

• Feel discouraged by a tough run instead of seeing it as part of the process.

• Miss out on the joy of running because they’re too focused on comparisons.

The Role of Comparison in Running

With social media flooded with race recaps, PR announcements, and podium finishes, it’s easy to feel like you don’t measure up. But remember:

• You only see the highlights—not the struggles behind the scenes.

• Everyone’s running journey is different; progress matters more than pace.

• Running is personal. Whether you run a 6-minute mile or a 12-minute mile, you’re still covering the same distance.

Advice for runners struggling with comparison:

• Unfollow accounts that make you feel inadequate. Your feed should inspire you, not discourage you.

• Celebrate your own progress. Keep a training log and reflect on how far you’ve come.

• Run for yourself, not for validation. Remember why you started running in the first place.

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome in Running

Coaches and sports psychologists recommend several strategies to combat these feelings:

✅ Set realistic, personal goals. Instead of measuring success by other people’s standards, focus on your own improvement.

✅ Keep a running journal. Document your milestones, no matter how small. Looking back on past progress can remind you of how much you’ve achieved.

✅ Practice positive self-talk. Replace self-doubt with empowering statements like:

• I am a runner, no matter my pace.

• Every step forward is progress.

• I belong at this starting line.

✅ Surround yourself with supportive runners. A great running community can remind you that every runner, at every level, deserves to be here.

The Pressure of Running Milestones

Many runners believe they need to hit certain milestones—like a sub-4-hour marathon or a Boston Qualifier—to feel like a “real” runner. But achievements don’t define you—your dedication, persistence, and love for the sport do.

How coaches address this:

• Encouraging runners to define success beyond finish times.

• Helping athletes focus on their own progress, rather than external benchmarks.

• Reminding runners that even professionals have races where they struggle—what matters is showing up and trying again.

A Coach’s Perspective: Spotting and Addressing Imposter Syndrome

Many coaches recognize imposter syndrome in their athletes when they:

• Constantly downplay their successes.

• Express fear of failing in workouts or races.

• Struggle with confidence despite strong training.

The first step in addressing it? Encouragement and perspective shifts. A great coach helps runners see their strengths, celebrate wins, and focus on growth, not just outcomes.

Personal Experience: Even Coaches Face It

Even running coaches and experienced athletes experience imposter syndrome. Maybe it’s stepping up to a new distance, competing in a major race, or coming back after an injury. The key to overcoming it? Recognizing that doubt is normal, but it doesn’t define you.

Final Thoughts: You Belong Here

If you lace up your shoes and hit the pavement, you are a runner—no question about it. Running isn’t about proving yourself to anyone; it’s about finding joy in movement, setting personal challenges, and growing at your own pace.

So the next time you question whether you belong in the sport, remember: You already do.

Keep running, keep believing, and keep embracing your journey.