Home > The Scene

Weird but common start line thoughts

Inside the mind of a runner on the start line

Many runners are in the final stages of preparation for their spring race. When runners are anxious on a start line, their minds can go lots of places. We did a social media callout to our readers to ask about the weirdest start line thoughts that have wandered across their minds before the gun goes off. Here are some of the best and most common answers. 

RELATED: Crown Prince of Denmark running World Cross-Country Championships

RELATED: 9 last-minute start line realizations no runner wants to have

Stomach issues

Inexplicable confidence 

Unconventional cravings 

Disorientation

Equipment failure

Chafing

Questioning sanity

Not-doctor-recommended substances

Check out the latest buyer's guide:

Top 10 shoes our testers are loving this April

We tested tons of great shoes this year, but only the very best make the list