If you've ever wondered why or how running and writing are similar activities to each other, then read on. I'm sharing 50 analogies that show how writing is a lot more like running that you might think. Both require perseverance, tenacity, and starting/finishing a BIG goal.

1. Starting Line: Just like a runner poised at the starting line, a writer begins with a blank page.
2. Warm-Up: Writers warm up by brainstorming ideas, much like runners stretch before a race.
3. Pacing: Just as runners pace themselves, writers must control the flow of their narrative.
4. Sprinting: Sometimes, writing requires sprinting to meet deadlines, similar to a runner's final push.
5. Marathon: Writing a novel is akin to running a marathon, requiring endurance and dedication.
6. Training: Writers need to practice and train their skills, similar to athletes.
7. Runner's High: Writers experience a "writer's high" when the words flow effortlessly.
8. Obstacles: Writers face obstacles like writer's block, akin to a runner encountering hurdles.
9. Racing against time: Deadlines in writing are like race times in running, urging you to perform.
10. Hill Climbing: Overcoming writer's block is like conquering a steep hill during a run.
11. Breathing: Just as runners focus on their breath, writers pay attention to sentence structure.
12. Form: Good writing, like proper running form, is crucial for success.
13. Finish Line: Completing a manuscript is like crossing the finish line of a race.
14. Competition: Writers often compete for attention and readers, similar to athletes.
15. Second Wind: Sometimes, writers find a second wind, pushing through tough spots like runners.
16. Coach: Writers may seek guidance from mentors, like runners have coaches.
17. Team Relay: Collaborative writing is akin to a relay race, passing the baton of ideas.
18. Injury: Writer's burnout is like a runner's injury, requiring rest and recovery.
19. Training Plan: Writers have writing schedules, much like runners have training regimens.
20. Hydration: Keeping ideas fresh and flowing is like staying hydrated during a run.
21. Elevation: Writing can take you to new heights, just like running in mountainous terrain.
22. Adaptation: Writers adapt to different genres, just as runners adapt to various terrains.
23. Warm Down: Editing and revising are like the cool-down after a race.
24. Mental Toughness: Writing, like running, requires mental resilience.
25. Personal Record: Writers aim to break their own records with each piece they write.
26. Starting Blocks: Research and preparation are like a runner's starting blocks.
27. Cool Down: Reflecting on your work is like a runner's cool-down jog.
28. Interval Training: Writing in bursts and editing in intervals is like interval training for runners.
29. Steady Pace: Consistency in writing is like maintaining a steady running pace.
30. Finisher's Medal: Publishing a book is akin to winning a race and receiving a medal.
31. Cross-Training: Exploring other creative pursuits can complement writing, much like cross-training benefits runners.
32. Runner's Stretch: Writers take breaks to prevent burnout, similar to runners stretching to avoid injury.
33. Pit Stops: Pausing to gather thoughts is like a runner taking pit stops during a long race.
34. The Zone: Writers enter "the zone" when they are completely absorbed in their work, like a runner in the flow.
35. Trail Running: Exploring different writing styles is like running on various types of trails.
36. Headwind: Facing criticism is like running into a headwind, challenging but surmountable.
37. Spectators: Readers are like spectators cheering for the writer's journey.
38. Starting Gun: Inspiration can strike like a starting gun, propelling you into writing mode.
39. Finish Chute: The final editing process is like the narrow finish chute of a race.
40. GPS: Outlining and planning are like using a GPS for your writing journey.
41. Medal Ceremony: Celebrating a writing achievement is like a podium ceremony.
42. In the Zone: Writers, like runners, perform at their best when fully immersed in their work.
43. Treadmill vs. Outdoor Running: Writing in isolation (treadmill) vs. experiencing life for inspiration (outdoor running).
44. Crossing the River: Editing can be compared to crossing a river by carefully stepping on stones.
45. Training Partners: Writers can find strength in writing groups, like runners benefit from training partners.
46. Runner's Journal: Keeping a writing journal is akin to a runner's training log.
47. Time Trials: Writers often test their abilities with writing challenges, much like runners in time trials.
48. Racing Shoes: The right tools, like a runner's shoes, can greatly impact the writing process.
49. Cool Breeze: Fresh ideas are like a cool breeze during a summer run, invigorating.
50. Falling and Getting Back Up: Both runners and writers face setbacks but must persist and keep moving forward.

These analogies showcase the parallels between the worlds of writing and running, illustrating the challenges, strategies, and joys common to both pursuits.

Keep writing, keep running.

​XO, 
Christie :)

Since 2010, I have been blogging over at www.christiewrightwild.blogspot.com. It started out as a personal journal for my writing. It has morphed several times over the years focusing on different things such as picture books, websites for authors, and of course my own publication journey.

It's time for Writers Who Run to get its own blog. So here we are! Every Monday, a new blog post will be published. Topics will always be focused on our four pillars for content.

1. Writing
2. Productivity
3. Running
4. Mindset

And of course, when I'm talking about productivity or mindset, it usually also applies to both writing and running. 

​Which pillar are you most excited to learn more about? Let us know over on the Writers Who Run Facebook page.