I think it's safe to say the average person selected at random couldn't even run a 5k much less finish it under 25 minutes likewise most probably couldn't even finish a half marathon in the 4hr window much less 'run' it. So feel pretty good to compare yourself to the population when you're down about not getting your goal time. You're welcome!
I like your general sentiment, but it would be more realistic to compare oneself with other people who run regularly.
That's like telling a guitar player who feels inadequate: "hey, you're still better than some non-guitarist would be!"
Or anything else.
If you took a random fat american, they probably couldn't hit the backboard from the 3 point line, much less make a decent percentage. That doesn't mean I am not out of practice
Whenever I feel down about my PBs or current level of fitness, I think of this:
The best guys at my school get beat by the best guys in the conference.
The best guys in the conference get pummeled by the best guys in the NCAA.
The best guys in the NCAA usually get trounced by the best pro runners in the US.
The top pro runners in the US typically cannot hang with the best East African runners.
Even Kenenisa Bekele probably cannot defeat the ghost of his former self when he races 5,000m or 10,000m on the track.
Unless you're currently in shape to set a world record, you're never going to be the proverbial fastest gun in the west. Never feel ashamed of your PBs. Never condescend to runners who are slower than you.
RIP: D3 All-American Frank Csorba - who ran 13:56 in March - dead
RENATO can you talk about the preparation of Emile Cairess 2:06
Great interview with Steve Cram - says Jakob has no chance of WRs this year
Running for Bowerman Track Club used to be cool now its embarrassing
Hats off to my dad. He just ran a 1:42 Half Marathon and turns 75 in 2 months!
2024 College Track & Field Open Coaching Positions Discussion