Am I considered an athlete if I'm not on a team?

Question

I run a lot, but I'm not part of the track team or cross country team. I like to run on my own time as a hobby and for fitness. Am I still considered an athlete?

Answer 1

Yes you are, but not for college applications.  For college (and scholarship) applications you have to be on the team to qualify.  

Answer 2

Of course you are.  Track and cross country are just there so people can run together, stay consistent, get in to shape, push their limits, and mainly to compete.  If you enjoy doing that then maybe you should think about joining a team but if you aren't in to that, it doesn't make you any less of  an athlete!...just as long as you are active. haha =]

Answer 3

I consider you to be an athlete but I can not say for other people.

Answer 4

Here is the definition for athlete.

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionar...

So yes, in america you are considered one!

Answer 5

Absolutely!!!. Just not a "Professional" one.  

Answer 6

Well i guess you are, because you are being very athletic, so i guess you are!

Answer 7

Absolutely!  

Answer 8

Athlete: ath·lete   Audio Help   (āth'lēt')  Pronunciation Key  

n.   A person possessing the natural or acquired traits, such as strength, agility, and endurance, that are necessary for physical exercise or sports, especially those performed in competitive contexts.

Sound like it to me.