Verse 1] I hate running—like I really do Sweat in places it should never ooze through My thighs are chafed, my will is gone These compression socks are holding on I hate the blisters in brand-new shoes The social shame of snot rocket abuse I fake a smile at mile four But my toenails just declared war [Pre-Chorus] I said, “Never again,” in mile nine's despair But now I’m googling races while gasping for air [Chorus] I hate running, it’s a cruel parade Of ankle tape and gels mislaid “Birthday cake?”—you dirty liar This sludge just sets my throat on fire I hate the chase for a port-a-john Like a high-stakes game of marathon Oh I swear, I hate running so... Then why can’t I let it go? [Verse 2] I hate waking up when it’s still dark To run through alleys that smell like a park Where squirrels throw shade and dogs give chase While I invent a new grimace face I hate the weather—it’s always wrong Too hot, too cold, too windy, too long The wind comes at me both ways somehow Even the sun is judging now [Pre-Chorus] I tell myself, “You’re too out of shape” Then I tighten my laces and re-tape my tape [Chorus] I hate running, with my heavy feet Each hill’s a monster I didn’t meet Every race a story I regret Till the minute it’s done—then I forget I hate the signs that say, “Almost there!” They’ve said that since mile six, I swear Oh I swear, I hate running so... But still—I line up, row by row [Bridge – Spoken, half-sung with synth build-up] And then… There it is. The finish line Chocolate milk like it's vintage wine Two bananas and a shaky grin My legs say, “No,” but my soul leans in A moment of silence… Then I whisper: “Let’s do that again.” [Final Chorus – Reversed Energy, triumphant and bright] I love running, didn’t know it then But I’m reborn every time I begin The pain, the sweat, the gasping breath It’s where I come alive, cheat death I love the crowd, I love the rain The solitude and the shared refrain Oh I swear, I love running so— It broke me down to help me grow [Outro – Big, Synth-Heavy Reprise of Chorus Line] 🎶 I hate running... (That’s what I say) But I’ll be back... Next Saturday. 🎶
