The community suggests that the fear of being watched while exercising is primarily a mental projection, and that the attitude of other runners is, in reality, either indifferent or marked by support and encouragement.

noli's read

The perception of being watched is a well-documented phenomenon in psychology known as the spotlight effect (Gilovich et al., Journal of Personality and Social Psychology), which demonstrates that we systematically overestimate the attention others pay to our actions or appearance. Research in sports psychology confirms that feelings of social anxiety in public spaces can indeed hinder physical activity, but it also highlights that perceived social support—even from strangers through signs of recognition—improves adherence to exercise. The idea that observers are too focused on their own effort to judge others is supported by studies on attentional focus. However, there is no evidence that all observers think positively; the assertion that people are systematically admiring is an optimistic hypothesis intended to reduce stress, but it remains a benevolent generalization. The community strongly converges toward this positive approach to overcome psychological barriers to exercise.

the sources

1. 1r/running