Sometimes I love the alone time I get during a run. It’s a chance to listen to some music or an audiobook, not be interrupted by co-workers or family members, or just be alone with my thoughts. But running by myself can sometimes get…well…a little boring. And I know that I don’t always push myself as hard during a hill or speed workout as I would if I were running with others.
Indeed, the benefits of group running are tremendous. Running with others can definitely keep you more motivated. Who wants to blow off a run when your running buddies are expecting you and you’ll never hear the end of it if you miss it? You’re also a lot less likely to get bored when you’re running with others.
Plus, there’s safety in numbers – it’s tough to get lost with a group. And if you get injured or sick, there’s always someone there to help. Potential attackers are unlikely to attack a pair or group of runners.
Running with a group is also an excellent way to meet others with common interests and expand your social circle. I know lots of runners who have formed close friendships, discovered new job opportunities, or even found their future mate through a running group. I met my husband during a group run while we were both training for the same marathon!
Not sure how to go about finding people to run with? Here are some ways to connect with other runners in your area:
1. Sign up for a local road race.
Many races offer free group training runs to registered participants. Look on the race’s website to see if they have any organized training runs scheduled. An added benefit is that some of the training runs may be on part of the race course, so you’ll be even more prepared for race day.
If the race doesn’t offer group training, see if you can recruit some friends or co-workers to do the race with you. You can form your own informal running group by training together once or twice a week leading up to the race. The race will give you all a common goal and motivation to keep training and supporting each other.
2. Check with national organizations.
Road Runners Club of America is a national organization that supports the development of community-based running clubs and events for all ages and abilities. Most local road running clubs offer group runs at least once a week.
Check out the Road Runners Club of America website to find the club closest to you. You can also look Running in the USA’s website for lists of running clubs.
3. Stop in your local running specialty store.
Many running shops host expert-led group training runs, usually for free, that start and finish at the store. If they don’t offer group runs, ask the store employees if they can suggest local running groups to you.
4. Check out community bulletin boards.
Community bulletin boards found at local gyms, fitness centers, coffee shops, and community centers can be a great resource for finding information about upcoming running events, group runs, and running clubs in your area. Take some time to browse through the postings on these boards, and you may come across a running group that catches your eye. Keep an eye out for flyers or business cards with contact information that you can use to reach out and learn more about the group.
5. Join a charity training program.
If you’d love to help others while getting in shape, look for a charity training program. Some not-for-profit organizations offer coaching and race entries in exchange for your fundraising efforts.
The biggest programs with many locations across the country include: the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation’s Team Challenge, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training, the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation’s Team for Cures, the Children’s Tumor Foundation’s NF Endurance Team, and the American Cancer Society’s DetermiNation.
You may also find that local fundraiser races offer free group training for race participants. And don’t let the idea of fundraising intimidate you. Follow these tips for successful fundraising for charity runners.
6. Explore running apps.
If you’re looking for more ways to connect with runners and track your progress, running apps can be a great option. Running apps like Strava and Runkeeper allow you to connect with other runners, join challenges, and track your runs and progress over time. By utilizing these apps, you can find a virtual community of like-minded individuals who can provide support, motivation, and encouragement as you search for your perfect running group.
7. Volunteer at races.
Volunteering at races is another excellent way to connect with local runners and potentially find your ideal running group. Whether you’re handing out water at an aid station, directing runners on the course, or helping with event logistics, volunteering at races can provide valuable opportunities to network and connect with fellow runners.
By immersing yourself in the running community through volunteering at races, you can not only give back to the sport you love but also forge connections with like-minded individuals who share your passion for running. These interactions can lead to new friendships, training partners, and potential running group recommendations.
Also see: Running Etiquette for Group Running
Running coach, avid runner, and fitness writer Christine Luff is an RRCA-certified running coach and ACE-certified personal trainer. Founder of the website Run for Good and author of the book Run for Good: How to Create a Lifelong Running Habit, she coaches runners, from beginners to advanced, who are training for races, from 5Ks to marathons.
