As a Galloway runner (meaning that I do a run/walk pattern rather than run all the way through a race), I regularly encounter spectators (and the occasional runner) who tell me to stop walking.  Most of the time, this is shouted as encouragement.  “Don’t walk!  You’re almost there!”  It’s said as if I’m walking because I’m struggling.  I’m sure that most of these people are just trying to be helpful, but it’s a little deflating to be having a great race and have someone tell me to stop walking.  Maybe with my intervals, I’m having a great race!

Of course, I’ve been running and had fellow runners scold me for walking during a race.  “You shouldn’t be out here if you can’t run.”  Yeah, thanks for that.   Obviously, I wholeheartedly disagree.  It doesn’t matter if you run every step or walk every step.  If you can cover the distance in the time allotted for the race, then you have every right to be there.

I know the majority of people who yell out to walkers are just trying to be helpful.  But it definitely does bug me.  It’s intentional!  I planned to walk my intervals!

So what should you, as a spectator, do if you see someone walking? Look at their face.  If they look like they’re struggling, offer encouragement.  And if they’re looking great, just yell something like “Way to go!”  It

By Megan

10 thoughts on “Pet Peeve – People Who Tell Me to Stop Walking”
  1. Hi! Stopping by from Holidailies … I totally disagree with those guys, too. If you want to participate in a race, it shouldn’t matter if you run, walk, or roll down the street in a wheelchair, so long as you do it. Keep up the great work! Cheers!

  2. People have actually said, “You shouldn’t be out here if you can’t run”.
    That is really sad and I am sorry for that!
    I think the galloway method is so much better for your body! I wish I can stick with intervals because I know i would recover so much quicker. I love support on the side of the road, but I don’t think I have ever been negatively yelled at.

  3. It is kind of crazy, and most of the negativity does actually come from other runners. I just do my best to stay over to the side of the course. Doesn’t stop people from shoving by when I’m on a walk break. But frequently, I end up catching those same people before the race is over because they pushed too hard in the beginning.

  4. Using the Galloway method is a smart and strategic way to race, and it’s great to hear you’re having a strong run! Many spectators may not realize that walk breaks are intentional and actually help with endurance and injury prevention. It’s all about running your own race in the way that works best for you. Keep enjoying your races and showing that every runner’s journey is unique and valid!
    Long Hair German Shepherd

  5. Totally get this! Nothing’s more annoying than being told to stop walking—especially when I’m just minding my business. Maybe they need Promotional Sun Shades to cool off and stop judging. Walking clears my head, and I’m not stopping anytime!

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  7. Totally feel you! It’s so annoying when people tell me to stop walking, like it’s hurting them somehow. Walking around Akala Residences helps me clear my head—why should I stop? Just let people move at their own pace. It’s not that deep!

  8. Totally feel you! Being told to stop walking, especially when you’re enjoying a peaceful stroll—like through Wynwood Dubai Islands—is just annoying. Walking clears the mind and fuels creativity. People should let others enjoy their pace, not micromanage it. Walkers, keep strolling strong!

  9. Totally get this pet peeve! Being told to stop walking feels so unnecessary—especially when you’re just minding your own business. It’s like someone yelling at transom windows canada for letting in light. Keep walking, keep glowing—some people just don’t get it.

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