The Art of the Mid-Run Chat

Running with others isn’t just about fitness - it’s also about having a good old yap. And yet, anyone who’s tried to hold a conversation while running knows it’s not simple. One moment you’re chatting away, the next you’re wondering how it’s possible to run out of breath just saying the word “anyway.”

Finding your chat pace takes a little practice. If you’re stuck in one-word-answer mode - “yep,” “fine,” “mmhm” you’re probably pushing too hard. But honestly, we’ve all been there.

Likewise, if you can hold a full-on TED Talk about your life story while running, maybe you could nudge things up a notch. Somewhere in the middle is the sweet spot: where you can talk in sentences, breathe comfortably, and still feel like you’re getting your heart rate going. This is often referred to as the “talk test,” and it’s a good indicator that you’re ticking along in that magical fitness-building aerobic zone.

But mid-run chats aren’t just about pacing. They’re about making the miles feel lighter. Time has a funny way of moving faster when you’re distracted by conversation. What might feel like a slog on your own suddenly becomes surprisingly manageable when you’re discussing weekend plans, ranting about work or debating whether pineapple on pizza is genius or a crime.

There’s also something oddly bonding about sharing breathless conversations. It’s not glamorous - but it’s real.

And here’s the bonus: having a yap while running can actually make you a stronger runner - your lungs adapt, your breathing improves, and over time, runs feel easier.

So at our next run, have a stab at the mid-run chat. Sure, you might sound a little breathy or lose your train of thought midway through a sentence, but that’s all part of the charm.