Whether you’re a one-miler or a marathoner, chances are you’re thinking the exact same thing as the jogger next to you.

How do we know? Science told us.

A recent study required participating runners to verbalize their thoughts, stream-of-consciousness style. A tape recorder strapped to their waist documented their every word, and--boom--we’ve got the inside track on the most ubiquitous thoughts..

How many did you have on today’s jaunt around the neighborhood?

1. Runners are thinking about their pace and distance.

And how to crush that damn hill.

2. Then, strategizing about how not to slow down.

Two words: pep talk.

3. But if they do, they know how to cut themselves some slack.

So you’ve got a knee injury. You’ll get 'em next time.

4. Still, in the beginning of the run, their mind drifts to any pain.

Stupid knee injury.

5. They’ve trained their brains to cope.

Deep breaths. One foot in front of the other. Because…goals.

6. They spend a lot of time thinking about geography and weather.

One mile to go and it’s hot as hell. Awesome.

7. Not to mention the trees and the birds.

Hello, beautiful world.

8. They’re brainstorming what to say to fellow runners.

Social awkwardness at its finest.

9. Last, but not least, they’re cursing bikers and traffic.

The collective dream: an open road.