Solo vs. Group Running
Solo vs. Group Running

We all have our own reasons for becoming a runner. Are you trying to get in shape? Are you training for a specific race? Or do you just love to get out and move?

When I started running, I did it as a stress relief. As I improved, I stayed motivated from the weight I lost and how much better I felt, so I started making distance goals for myself. Those distances gradually got longer and my goals became bigger. I went from working up to my first half marathon to training myself for my first full marathon all in less than two years. However, I did it completely on my own. I had the support of my family, but I planned alone, I trained alone, and I raced alone.

As time went on, I made friends in the running community, but I still ran solo most of the time. When I took the leap into ultra marathons though, I knew I would need people to help me get out for those longer distances and also to learn the trails. So I got involved with a running group organized by my local running store.

At first, I was intimidated to join a group. I was still a newbie and wasn’t sure I could keep up with everyone. I went out one weekend only to realize that everyone was of a different ability. There were no expectations; they were encouraging and willing to wait for the new kid. I felt very welcomed so I continued to meet them on a regular basis. I still had days when I ran solo, but they were fewer.

Running solo is not a bad thing. At times it is necessary to clear your head or to know you can make your own decision on distance, terrain, and pace. But you’re also on your own to find the motivation to stick with your goals.

Personally, running with a group for me is better. It is easier to get out of bed when it’s still dark when you know someone is counting on you to show up. When you run with other people, you can learn from their experiences and challenge yourself to keep up with someone faster than you. Or maybe you are the one offering the inspiration to the new runner. You are not alone when you are lacking the drive to continue, and it’s also safer to run as a group.

Everyone has their own preference when it comes to solo or group running. We all have our own sources of motivation as well. Running with a group has not only helped me improve as a runner, but has given me some of the best friends I’ve ever known. These people understand why I run. I still have my solo days, but my running group is like my second family. I encourage anyone to try running with a group. Find one that is encouraging, committed, and fits your style. Solo running is okay, but accountability helps us keep going.

Happy Trails!   

 

 
 
Seen a lot of slim chicks posting their

workouts on here so I thought I'd join 

the fun
Warning : I will bully every one of you

into daily stretches, plyo drills, crazy 

intervals, lifting heavy weights and 

epic long runs
104 °F.....  As my Grandma says, 

"Marathon training ain't for p*ssies."



Crazy old lady is right.

New Featured eBibs

You automatically lose my respect if  you don't change your running form  and pace when you see other people running
It's taper week so if you wanna go out now's your chance but have me home by 9
Are you supposed to wear the hydration belt over the gut or underneath it?  I don't want to look like a dork.
"It could be drugs," I whisper to myself as I buy another pair of running shoes  on an extremely tight budget.  "At least it's not drugs."
And here we f*cking go again. I mean  good morning
Sometimes walking away with good memories is enough.
MARATHONER.  Because my kids deserve a mother  they can brag about.
PRO TIP:  Running faster than anyone else can  help you win a race.
I have blisters on both feet, I might  have a stress fracture on my left foot, and my legs are so sore it hurts to walk.  But I got a shiny medal saying 'Finisher' which is nice
Another fine day ruined by a long run
I wasted half of my life telling people how long is a marathon
Having a job is cool and all but  everyday????? It's really starting to  mess with my training schedule
I like my morning run more than I like most people
Body: sexy  Feet: f*cked
Fun fact: a blue whale’s anus can  stretch to approximately 3 and a half  feet, making it the second largest  asshole on the planet, just behind irresponsible mountain bikers
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