The Lost Art of the Runner's Wave

Our manifesto to help saving a fading tradition

Back in the golden age of 1999 (yes, last century, I know...), when I first laced up my trainers and hit the pavement, respectful nods and enthusiastic waves were still a thing.

Fellow runners, strangers united by sweat and endorphins, acknowledged each other with a simple gesture, a raising of the hand, a slight bend of the elbow, an acknowledgment that said, "Hey, fellow sweaty stranger, I see you battling those demons in your head".

A silent "we're in this pain train together" that helped building a sense of community, even amongst strangers. Like a secret handshake, only cooler because it involved less awkward palm-sweating.

The wave was like a pact, a recognition of the shared struggle against the urge to walk, the sting of side stitches, and the ever-present battle with the voice in your head that whispers "Maybe just one pastel de nata won't hurt..."

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Uma publicação partilhada por Porto Running Tours (@portorunningtours)

But alas, times have changed.

 Nowadays, my runs along the Douro or in the city park feel more like a game of runner's dodgeball. People weave and bob with earbuds firmly in place, eyes glued to their smartwatches making sure Strava is effectively collecting data, oblivious to the world around them.

Gone are the days of the casual wave, replaced by furtive glances and the occasional grunt of exertion. It's enough to make a nostalgic runner like me shed a solitary tear...

...or maybe that's just the sweat stinging my eyes...

The Runner's Wave goes well beyond mere politeness.

 A wave fosters a sense of community, a feeling of belonging to a tribe of like-minded individuals who understand the unique challenges and triumphs of the sport.

It's a silent "good job" that can fuel your motivation for that extra kilometer, a silent "I see you" that reminds you are not alone in your pursuit of fitness (or that Francesinha for lunch).

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Uma publicação partilhada por Porto Running Tours (@portorunningtours)

So, what can we do to bring back this lost art?

Here's my humble 5-step plan of action:

(which I am also committed to, in all future training runs)  

1. Consider 'running naked' (I mean without technology, not actually no-clothes-bear-feet-naked!!!): I know, I know, presently asking someone to leave their mobile phone home is like forcing her/him to give up their oxygen supply. But trust me, the Douro isn't going anywhere, even the latest TikTok trend can wait... If you leave the airpods home, you'll might even be able to dodge the occasional seagull's incontinence (I failed twice last year but I know it's possible! :))

2. Scan the horizon: Keep an eye out for your fellow runners. Even if they're not running in that moment. They might be disguised as regular citizens, but a keen eye will spot the tell-tale signs: the purposeful stride, the slightly pained expression, the questionable fashion choices (guilty as charged).

3. Make Eye Contact (But Don't Be Creepy): A simple, non-threatening glance acknowledges the other runner's presence and opens the door for the wave. Think of it as a silent "hello, fellow struggler."

4. Initiate the Wave (Don't Be Shy), Unleash your inner maestro: Don't wait for the other person to make the first move. Be the change you want to see in the running world! Raise your hand with confidence. A simple wave,  a cheerful thumbs-up, a grunt (a friendly one, mind you), any of these will do. You might even get a smile in return, a silent "thank you" for reminding them of the simple joys of human connection, even on a pre-dawn run along the Douro.

5. Spread the Word (But Don't Be a Missionary): Casually mention the lost art of the Runner's Wave to your fellow runners. Share this article (if you find it amusing, of course). Let's start a conversation, not a cult.

Remember, fellow Runners, we're all in this beautiful, hilly city together.

Let's bring back the runner's wave, one acknowledging nod at a time.

And who knows, maybe it'll even inspire a wave of friendly greetings across the city, everyone from Bolhao vendors to tram drivers, from police officers to the people visiting from all over the world...

Now that would be a sight to see!

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Uma publicação partilhada por Porto Running Tours (@portorunningtours)

P.S.: On a Running tour in Porto, of course you're allowed to bring your phone - it's definitely needed to ensure you'll take home some good snaps of our lovely city and it may even prove useful if you decide to drop us a positive review on Google right after the run ;)

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Share this one with your running friends and start waving: