5 possible post-race runner reactions

Most runners have put time and effort into preparing for their race, so a lot of emotions ride on the day of the event. As with anything someone cares a lot about, the outcome of the race will inform a runner’s reaction. If you’re a runner, you can certainly empathize with most of the emotions below and if you’re a spectator, treat this as a how-to guide to gauge your runner’s mood post-race.

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The happy dance runner

If a runner is leaping with joy after a race, they probably had a good one. This reaction is usually the result of a personal best, and not just any personal best, a huge personal best. This runner is easy to spot because they’re probably jumping, crying and wading through crowds of people to find their cheer squad to celebrate. This runner had their perfect day, whatever that may be for them.

The content runner

The content runner will smile but not jump, scream or cry. They’re happy with their effort, and probably achieved either what they set out to or something very close to it. The content runner is ideal post-race company because they won’t need to dissect every aspect of their race like the ecstatic runner, but also won’t be melting into a deep pool of bad-race despair.

The relieved runner

Relief post-race is typically a sign of someone who was a little underprepared. Perhaps they’re coming back from an injury and weren’t sure their body would hold up. Or maybe they started their 12-week build only 10 weeks out. Regardless, they finished, they’re in one piece, and they’re glad it’s over.

The laughing runner

If your runner comes across the line laughing, something probably went comically wrong. Maybe someone stepped on their shoe and they lost it (unfortunately common in cross-country races), maybe they didn’t get fuel, maybe they got lost or maybe they had a bathroom issue. Whatever the reason, the laughing runner is in fine spirits because the mess-up felt out of their control.

The do not approach runner

This reaction can be identified by avoidance of friends and family, failure to pick up their race medal and an extremely long cool down. The disappointed runner, also known as the do not approach runner, probably just ran wildly slower than what they expected to. Some alone time will be required.