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TT: Running With Groups


The TT topic for today is: Benefits of Running With Groups 

This one was easy for me because that is my preference and I am lucky to live in an area where I have access to many different running groups.

So here’s why I like to run with groups:

  • It’s fun and inclusive.

You’re never alone.  There’s always someone faster and slower than you. No one is ever left behind in group running.

  • You will be motivated to run faster.

My long runs with other runners are always faster than when I run alone.

  • You will be less likely to cancel.

Especially if you’ve paid for the training.  Or people are waiting for you. And even if the weather is not ideal, you will most likely show up.

  • You will make new friends.

You will then bump into them at races or make plans to race together.

we met at the Turkey Trot Group runs

fellow Freihofer Challenge groupies

  • You may run at a location that you normally wouldn’t choose.

I’ve run at parks and in neighborhoods that I had never been to before.

path near Knickerbocker Area

Indian Ladder Farms

  • It will prepare for better for race conditions.

Yes, no one ever runs races solo.

  • Chatting with others will make the miles go faster.

The funny thing is while we run, we rarely talk about running.  But after…a different story.

  • You may learn something new.

You’ll learn about new races or new gear and even get running tips.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

Happy Running! Do you often run with a group? If so, what benefit(s) does it offer you as a runner?  Please share.

runner-sig

26 thoughts on “TT: Running With Groups”

  1. A big yes to all these, Darlene! I also love running in a group. Mainly because I love to talk and listen to others about running. 🙂
    But the other point you mentioned is a good one: you get to run in neighbourhoods you normally wouldn’t run. I’ve been doing that a lot over the past few weeks and it is very enjoyable and interesting.

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  2. Agree with everything you mentioned! I’ve made a few local friends through different running groups which I consider to be a huge benefit. I’ve found it to be more difficult to make friends as I’ve gotten older so running has really helped with that.

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  4. I’ve never run with a group! Its just never really worked with my schedule and I really like being able to go at my own pace and at a time thats convenient to me. But it seems like there are so many benefits to running with a group!

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    • I’m right there with you Lisa. Plus, as far as I know, there aren’t any running groups close by me – the closest I know of is an hour away. I usually barely have time for my run, let alone drive for an hour to do it. LOL I do think it would be fun to do though, for all of the reasons that Darlene mentioned.

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      • When I traveled for work and at the beginning of the pandemic I did run alone. And often my schedule doesn’t allow it. But I do miss the group benefits.

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    • Every runner is different. I prefer running with others. But of course there are many times that it is better for me to run alone.

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  5. I almost always run alone- every once in a while with my husband. I like being alone and setting my own pace and schedule, but I’m open to the fact that I might really like group runs if I tried it. Something to keep in mind for the future!

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    • Running is different for everyone. Sometimes running alone is the best option. If a group is available I would recommend trying it to see if it is beneficial to you.

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  6. I disagree with number one. Because not all groups actually do account for those at the BOTP. Yes, many do, but on one of my first night runs with ARE (many years ago), my new friend and I quickly lost the rest of the runners.

    We were completely lost. Eventually someone from a different running group found us & guided us back. Which was just luck.

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    • Based on my own experience with FTC, SOAR, ARE and several other groups that has never happened. And I can only speak from own experience. That’s a great reason not to run alone.

      I also am not only referring to official groups. I consider running with some friends also a “group.”

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  8. I primarily ran solo for many years until right before the pandemic started when I decided to join a running group. That was put on hold for a while but once they started back again, I started going to one of the group runs. Even though I’ve only been a few times I like it so far.

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  10. I used to run with my running club all the time (well on weekends at least) and I loved it. As time passed people moved on and now I usually run alone. Which I also love. I’m happy now that I’m running with a girlfriend once a week again (from that long ago running club). It’s been great.

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    • You do have your hubby as a running partner too.

      That’s great that you also have a friend to run with.

      Even within a group, runners usually pair up anyway.

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